3rd Myth about Managing Up

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Myth #3: Suggest ways to make the boss more popular with the team.
By Geoffrey James Copyright CNET 2007

CONVENTIONAL WISDOM:
The boss will appreciate your efforts to improve morale and teamwork.

Why it’s a myth:
If your boss is unpopular, there’s very little you can do to change that perception.

Try this instead:
When boss-bashing takes place beyond his earshot, don’t join the fray. Instead, give the boss credit for things he does well. When the department spy (there always is one) reports back to the boss,he’ll learn that you’re an ally.

Example:
“Yeah, Joe loses his temper sometimes. But he’s really good at defending our interests in front of the budget committee.”

3rd Myth about Managing Up