In a recent LinkedIn post, Justin Wright explores the concept of ‘managing up,’ reframing it not as political maneuvering but as a strategic partnership essential for career advancement.
Wright challenges the common perception that managing up involves sycophancy or manipulation. Instead, he posits that it mirrors the supportive approach leaders take with their own teams.
“Managing up is about being smart. Most people think it means brown-nosing. Being fake, manipulating, playing games. They’re dead wrong.”
According to Wright, the core of effectively managing up lies in understanding and serving your boss’s needs, much like you would support your direct reports. He emphasizes that when a manager succeeds, the entire team benefits, including the individual practicing these skills.
The Case for Proactive Support
Wright argues that leaders are often overwhelmed and operate with incomplete information. By proactively assisting them, individuals can significantly ease their burden and, in turn, foster a more positive professional relationship. This proactive stance, as Wright points out, is crucial for career trajectory.
“Your boss is drowning in priorities. Fighting battles you’ll never see. Making decisions with half the information they’d want. When you make their life easier, it comes back to help you too.”
He likens the effort put into developing team members to the effort that should be extended towards supporting one’s manager. This consistent support system, Wright suggests, creates a virtuous cycle of success.
From Politics to Partnership
The distinction Wright draws between traditional ‘office politics’ and effective ‘managing up’ is central to his message. He advocates for a collaborative approach, viewing the relationship with a manager as a partnership rather than a game to be won through manipulation.
Actionable Strategies for Managing Up
To illustrate his points, Wright offers several practical actions individuals can take:
- Send regular weekly updates.
- Present solutions rather than just problems.
- Identify and flag potential issues before they escalate.
These actions, in Wright’s view, are not about ingratiation but about demonstrating competence, reliability, and a commitment to shared success.
“Success is a byproduct of helping others. It’s not politics. It’s partnership.”
Ultimately, Wright concludes that the relationship with one’s boss can be a significant asset or a considerable obstacle. He empowers individuals by suggesting they have the agency to shape this dynamic.
“Because your boss can be either your biggest champion or your biggest barrier. In most cases, you get to choose which one.”
Wright frames mastering the art of managing up as a form of leadership in action, encouraging professionals to adopt this strategic mindset for their own growth and the betterment of their teams and organizations.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Justin Wright on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on June 26, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →