Managing Up Without Sucking Up

We all know the obvious “suck up” type. The obsequious, fawning sycophant who only gives the boss good news, is always complimentary, and who (probably) is disliked by everyone—including the boss. In real life, the distinction between “managing up” and “sucking up” is rarely that black-and-white. How can you be the kind of employee your boss wants and needs without simply slathering on empty praise? Hint: it’s all about honest communication. Listen in as my three leadership experts on this week’s panel share how they like to be “managed up to,” and how you can improve your relationship with your boss without becoming a shallow flunky.