When I joined the workforce years ago, I was at the bottom of the corporate totem pole. I had a manager, my manager had a manager, his manager had a manager, and so on. I was well managed. But I’ve learned who the real manager is in this hierarchy – you. You have to manage your manager.

I come from a background in business consulting, in which managing your manager, or upward management, is not only an important tool, but critical in getting projects completed successfully. It may seem obvious that your manager should know exactly what you are working on. But more often than not, they are juggling multiple projects, multiple assignments, and have probably forgotten what they asked you to do in the first place. Managing your manager not only makes their job easier (let’s face it, if you make them look good, you’ll get cookies, and cookies make you happier), but also gives you more control over your work and deadlines.

So how do you manage upwards? Upwards management is all about expectations management. When asked to work on something, be proactive and respond with what you think the task entails, and more importantly, when you think you can have drafts and finished work ready. If the work takes more than a few days, provide timely and concise updates on how you’re progressing, and any issues you need help with. You’ll find that you are able to correct your course before you head down the wrong direction, and your manager will know exactly what they’re getting and when they’re getting it. Most importantly, when you’re done, close the loop and let them know you’re done… ideally ahead of schedule

Upwards management becomes increasingly important when dealing with managers that are always on the road, or working in a different location. When working remotely, your manager loses her ability to check up on you, and you lose the ability to ask clarifying questions. Now is your chance to over-communicate, and your manager can determine how much information she wants to read.

Finally, when you’re someone’s manager’s manager, think of how nice it will be when your team does all the work and manages you.