I need to step up at work, no idea how

12 Comments

1. Jacquelynn LucasApril 11,2022 at 4:03PM UTC

   I think first off - you need to determine what it is that you want to "grow" to accomplish. Is it a managerial role? Leading Projects? New Skills? Once you identify the end game then you can determine the little steps to get there. If it is a new skill, see if there are cross training opportunities or courses you could take. Perhaps it is all of the above and those are the steps need (i.e. learn new skill, in order to lead projects, then manage people). Coming up with your own "tentative plan" to present to your boss will give you a starting point to determine how the company can help you achieve your goals.

   Good Luck!

2. AnonymousApril 11,2022 at 6:35PM UTC

   I don't know if this applies to you, but when I feel like a staff member needs to stop checking in with me, it's usually because when they check in, they want me to give them direction and tell them what to do. In healthcare, we use SBAR, and I think that works really well as a way to get into the habit of even if you're checking in and asking for directions you provide your assessment and what you think should be the direction. I found that it helps people grow into their roles when they still want the certainty of checking in with me but they need to show that they have the critical thinking skills to do the work without checking in with me. Hope that helps.

3. AnonymousApril 15,2022 at 12:45PM UTC

   There is a concept called managing up which may be relevant here. There are plenty of training modules on LinkedIn Learning and possibly other tools out there.

   Here's an article that provides some background: https://hbr.org/2015/01/what-everyone-should-know-about-managing-up

4. YlanApril 15,2022 at 1:21PM UTC

   It sounds like your manager trusts your judgment and experience to be able to work on a project or task without his input. Switch your interactions with him from "I am checking in with you for guidance and permission" and more to "I am doing this and keeping you informed."

   Another way to expand your skillset and identity areas to be more helpful is talk to more people across the organization. Find out what issues are occurring, learn about the systems behind them, and see how you can help if you have the bandwidth. Granted, that doesn't work at all organizations, but it does show that you are willing to take control of the work you're doing, take on more responsibility, and contribute to improving the company!

5. Alexis GladstoneApril 15,2022 at 1:44PM UTC

   I agree with and like a lot of the advice already given. Here are some additional ideas.

   Look for special projects or tasks that you can volunteer to run or participate in. Be sure you have the skill set to do it! If you have noticed something that needs improvement or tweaks, share it with your manager along with a plan to improve it.

   Is there cross-training you can do to learn about another persons roll and make yourself more valuable?

   It's all about focusing on activities that improve your skills and initiative and add value to the organization.

6. JJApril 15,2022 at 3:05PM UTC

   These types of conversations can be really hard so good job not running back to bed and pulling the covers over your head!!
   ?

   I was in a similar situation early in my career and while tough, it was very good for me. One I truly did trust and respect my boss so I was able to appreciate his feedback. Two, I loved my work so it was important.

   Ideas:

   Add 15 minutes to your morning to practice what you are going to say in your most important conversations so you feel confident when it comes up.

   Edit your emails to be statements, not questions. It will feel like you sound bossy, but you don’t sound specific, direct and confident.

   When you are managing a project or you’re telling people how to do something that relates to your work, give them the plan upfront and then let them ask questions. Again, it feels bossy but it really is the opposite.

   It sounds like your boss wants you to be able to work with confidence and move forward with ideas without relying on him. The old phrase “it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission“ is actually very good advice.

   Confidently leading takes practice but you can do it!

7. Kim PfeifferApril 15,2022 at 3:41PM UTC

   This sounds really good. You've already had the conversation and it sounds like he just wants to be kept in the loop.

   Take the responsibility and email him your plans (without asking permission). But give him a bit of time to respond before you act, just in case he has some input for you. Generally, people respond to an email with a simple "okay" or an answer. If you get a "thanks for the email" kind of response, run with it.

   Good luck. He sounds like a good boss.

8. HarrietApril 15,2022 at 4:30PM UTC

   As Julia stated very well in a response, have a plan. Make sure that the actions you partake moving forward via emails, calls or word of mouth that you do them in a manner that suggest confidence.

   Leaving things in a question format even when you did not intend could be an indication that you are not as confident in what you are saying.

   You could also practice talking to friends/ family in-person or via phone/email to make sure that your intent is known.

   You will prosper!

9. Julie Anne SmolarekApril 15,2022 at 4:47PM UTC

   For the next 2 months, before your meetings with him, answer the questions:

   1) what does he want/need to know?

   2) what do you want from him? (inform, resources, decisions, bounce ideas off of, etc.)

   3) what are your key messages?

   After 2 months of practice, this should become more second nature. I still do this for important presentations.

10. Jessica HallApril 16,2022 at 6:42PM UTC

    If something involves decision making, I have two suggestions:

    1. Ask yourself if the decision can be revered if you make the "wrong" decision. If yes, make a decision. In the past, I've often found that if I'm able to explain my thought process as to why I made a certain decision, my boss would usually support me even if they disagreed.
    2. If there are certain decisions that have a larger impact (i.e. purchasing something), ask your boss for guidelines on what they're comfortable with you approving/buying without input.
11. NicoleApril 24,2022 at 4:16PM UTC

    Yes, what she said! And the key on the last part is that your asking for guideline NOT what to do or what choice to make. It helps provide the feeling that you know how to make decisions but want to align with the boss.

12. Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachApril 20,2022 at 7:40PM UTC

    Hey Anonymous!

    I help young professionals do this so they can get noticed and increase their salary. I have a whole system that can help you show up at the next level to deliver and impress, and from what you said above I know you would really benefit from it. We can make taking more responsibility/ownership of your work and delivering value second nature to you.

    Here's my link if you want to get on a consult call to learn more about my 3 month coaching. Hope to speak with you! https://maeganmillercoaching.as.me/consultcall