I recently managed to get my manager on board with an idea, but I feel like I had to wait for the perfect moment - when we were short on hours - to present it. I could have spoken up earlier, but I didn't want to trigger an angry reaction. I'm looking for advice from experienced mentors on how to better communicate my input to my IT manager without it feeling like I have to strategize so much. What are some effective ways to approach this?
5 Answers
One tip: make your manager believe the idea came from them! It’s a clever tactic that can save you from conflicts down the line.
Getting your manager to agree doesn't have to be a game of timing. Building a good rapport can seriously help, but if you feel you have to wait for the perfect moment, it might be a sign of a bigger issue. Try to present solutions when problems arise, and be ready to discuss your ideas confidently to encourage open feedback.
Honestly, if you're constantly strategizing on when to pitch ideas, that screams a lack of healthy communication in your workspace. Make sure to bring solid solutions rather than just issues, and be able to back them up. If your manager isn't receptive to that, it could be time to reevaluate your job situation.
If your manager is frequently agreeing with you, that should be celebrated, not seen as something you achieved. Instead of focusing on how to get their approval, concentrate on making sure your ideas are presented with clarity and supported by strong reasoning.
This whole thing is often called "managing your manager." You can read up on it, though some resources are pretty superficial. There are definitely some gems out there that can give you insights into navigating these dynamics.

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