We admit, “managing up” doesn’t exactly sound like the most positive way to talk about working with your boss. But when you peel it back, it’s not jargon or corporate manoeuvring. It’s about people. It’s about building confidence in yourself, understanding the person you report to, and shaping a working relationship where both of you can thrive.
The Harvard Business Review defines managing up as “being the most effective employee you can be, creating value for your boss and your company.” But if you’re in a support role, you’ll know it’s also about something bigger: trusting yourself, feeling heard, and having the confidence to take ownership of your career.
Why confidence matters when managing up
You already have the skills. You already have the experience. So what’s missing that might be holding you back?
Confidence.
Confidence is how you believe in yourself, how others see you, and, more often than not, the key to unlocking your next step. Without it, imposter syndrome creeps in. You start wondering if you’re “senior enough” to push back or worrying that your ideas won’t land.
Angela Ashwell, Global Head of Talent at RGF Staffing, put it beautifully during our Imposter Syndrome webinar: imposter syndrome isn’t a weakness, it’s a message. It’s your mind telling you that you’re not the finished article, and that’s okay, because nobody is. Instead of fighting those feelings, listen to them. Let them guide you toward growth.
Confidence doesn’t mean being the loudest in the room. It’s about knowing the value you bring, showing up authentically, and giving yourself permission to be heard.
Why managing up is more important than ever
Workplaces are faster, busier, and more complex. Managers are stretched thin, and their team often keep everything running in the background. Managing up helps cut through the noise and build genuine alignment.
When you manage up with confidence, you:
- Avoid crossed wires and last-minute surprises.
- Get clearer direction and more useful feedback.
- Take control of your workload and priorities.
- Build trust and influence as someone reliable and proactive.
In other words: you stop firefighting and start feeling in control.
How to know if managing up could help you
You might want to focus on managing up if you often feel like:
- You’re unsure what your manager really wants.
- You’re caught off guard by shifting priorities.
- Your contributions aren’t being recognised.
- You’re constantly reactive instead of proactive.
Practical steps to start managing up
Like any skill, managing up takes practice. The good news? Small changes go a long way:
- Understand their style: Notice whether they’re detail-focused or big picture, hands-on or hands-off. Adapt your approach to suit.
- Clarify priorities: Don’t wait for instructions, ask “What’s the key outcome here?” to avoid crossed wires.
- Communicate openly: Share updates before you’re asked. Raise challenges early with possible solutions.
- Be realistic about workload: If priorities shift, explain the impact and suggest trade-offs.
- Build rapport: Take time to connect. Celebrate small wins. A little empathy builds trust.
- Ask for feedback: Show you’re open to learning by inviting your manager’s thoughts on how you work together.
Angela Ashwell’s recommendations for building confidence
During our Imposter Syndrome webinar, Angela shared some of her go-to tools and resources that can help you strengthen self-belief and resilience:
Books: The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest, Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras, If in Doubt, Wash Your Hair by Anya Hindmarch.
Podcasts/Videos: Feel Better, Live More by Dr Rangan Chatterjee, The Mel Robbins Podcast, TEDx talks on boundaries and authenticity.
Tools: The VIA Character Strengths Survey and the 16 Personalities Test — quick exercises that shine a light on your strengths and help you play to them.
These are giving yourself space to reflect, learn, and celebrate the qualities you already bring.
Managing up with Crone Corkill
At Crone Corkill, we know that people are the backbone of every successful business. That’s why we create events designed to help you:
- Build confidence and tackle imposter syndrome.
- Set boundaries and navigate workplace dynamics.
- Handle challenging personalities with ease.
- Take ownership of your career progression.
Events like these are about creating a space to connect with others who share your ambitions and challenges and leaving with the confidence to take your career into your own hands.
Managing Up FAQs
How can I build confidence in managing up?
Confidence comes from small, consistent actions: asking clear questions, being proactive with updates, and celebrating your wins. Tools like mentoring, preparation, and personality or strengths surveys can also help you recognise the value you already bring.
Does managing up mean I have to do more work?
No. Managing up isn’t about taking on extra tasks. It’s about working smarter. By clarifying priorities and communicating clearly, you often save time, reduce stress, and make your workload feel more manageable.
Can managing up help with imposter syndrome?
Yes. Imposter syndrome often makes people hesitate to speak up or take initiative. Managing up gives you practical ways to show your value, which builds confidence and helps silence that inner critic over time.