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Managing Your Manager

Managing Your Manager

How to Get Ahead with Any Type of Boss
by Gonzague Dufour 2010 256 pages
3.52
100+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Understand Your Boss's Type to Manage Them Effectively

"If there's one thing I've learned working for and observing many different bosses, it's that the right approach usually pays off in much more positive, productive relationships."

Know your market. Understanding your boss's type is crucial for managing up effectively. The six most common boss types are the Bully, the Good, the Kaleidoscope, the Star, the Scientist, and the Navel. Each type has distinct characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses that influence their management style and decision-making processes.

Tailor your approach. By identifying your boss's type, you can adapt your communication and work style to complement theirs. This understanding allows you to:

  • Anticipate their reactions to different situations
  • Frame your ideas and suggestions in ways they're more likely to accept
  • Manage potential conflicts more effectively
  • Capitalize on their strengths while mitigating their weaknesses

Recognizing that no boss fits perfectly into one category, use this framework as a starting point to develop a nuanced understanding of your manager's unique blend of traits and tendencies.

2. The Bully: Navigate Aggression and Deliver Results

"Limit the Pain, Target the Gain"

Manage emotions strategically. Bully bosses are aggressive, command-and-control types who can deliver great results but also take bad risks. They often use intimidation and anger to motivate their team. To work effectively with a Bully:

  • Don't take their outbursts personally; understand it's their default mode under pressure
  • Develop a thick skin and find humor in difficult situations when possible
  • Be prepared with logical, concise arguments when challenging their ideas
  • Deliver measurable, meaningful results consistently

Build respect through assertiveness. Bullies respect those who can stand up to them professionally. Demonstrate your value by:

  • Being a reliable source of information and updates
  • Developing expertise in areas the Bully lacks
  • Handling tasks they dislike or aren't good at
  • Displaying controlled assertiveness when necessary

3. The Good: Balance Stability with Personal Growth

"Coping with the Boredom"

Appreciate consistency. Good bosses are stable, calm, and communicative, but can be risk-averse and resistant to change. They create a safe, predictable work environment that can sometimes feel stagnant. To thrive under a Good boss:

  • Meet modest objectives consistently
  • Be transparent in your communication
  • Propose challenging projects for yourself that don't disrupt the status quo
  • Help widen their network and decode organizational politics

Create your own challenges. While the Good boss provides a stable work environment, it's up to you to drive your own growth:

  • Seek out learning opportunities outside your immediate role
  • Volunteer for cross-functional projects
  • Develop skills in managing risk to complement your boss's cautious approach
  • Take initiative in suggesting improvements, but frame them within the context of maintaining stability

4. The Kaleidoscope: Adapt to Power Dynamics

"Display Your Own Power Selectively and Strategically"

Understand power motivations. Kaleidoscope bosses are complex, shifting their persona to accumulate and consolidate power. They're extremely bright and business-savvy but can be difficult to know personally. To work effectively with a Kaleidoscope:

  • Accept that you'll never truly know the "real" person behind the masks
  • Display your own power selectively and strategically
  • Be a reliable source of valuable information
  • Prepare them for the roles they need to play in different situations

Navigate power plays. Kaleidoscopes respect those who can assert themselves without threatening their authority. To succeed:

  • Choose your battles wisely; challenge only when you have a strong case
  • Frame your ideas in terms of how they enhance the Kaleidoscope's power
  • Seed ideas subtly rather than suggesting them directly
  • Develop a keen understanding of organizational politics and power dynamics

5. The Star: Support Their Spotlight While Advancing Your Career

"Enjoy the Ride"

Embrace the drama. Star bosses are dynamic, dramatic, and action-oriented. They create excitement but can also be impulsive and demanding. To thrive under a Star:

  • Enjoy the ride and the ringside seat to their performance
  • Be a patient listener and supportive friend
  • Respond quickly to their requests and ideas
  • Provide post-game analysis that focuses on external factors, not their mistakes

Capitalize on opportunities. Stars can open doors and create unique learning experiences:

  • Be prepared to work hard and fast when opportunities arise
  • Learn from their ability to command attention and inspire others
  • Develop your skills in quick thinking and adaptability
  • Position yourself as a loyal, capable supporter who can handle their high-energy style

6. The Scientist: Leverage Their Expertise and Logic

"Enjoy the Intellectual Challenges"

Engage with theories and data. Scientist bosses are highly logical and reliant on theories and systems. They're open to feedback but can stubbornly stick to their beliefs. To work effectively with a Scientist:

  • Engage fully in their theories and systems; enjoy the intellectual stimulation
  • Provide logical, well-articulated arguments when suggesting changes
  • Help impose order and discipline on their sometimes disorganized approach
  • Translate their complex ideas for others in the organization

Balance theory and practice. While Scientists excel in analysis, they may struggle with practical implementation:

  • Help bridge the gap between theory and practice
  • Develop expertise in areas complementary to your boss's knowledge
  • Be prepared to provide more precise direction when needed
  • Recognize that their support, while valuable, may not be unconditional

7. The Navel: Manage Ego-Driven Behaviors Strategically

"Challenge Your Own Values"

Navigate self-centeredness. Navel bosses are driven by ego and self-interest. They can be charming and decisive but also ruthless and self-absorbed. To work effectively with a Navel:

  • Accept that you're being manipulated and set emotional boundaries
  • Communicate potential problems without making the Navel look or feel bad
  • Use their hungry ego to manipulate them into doing the right thing
  • Capitalize on their good ideas and execution skills

Protect yourself and add value. Working for a Navel requires strategic thinking:

  • Don't depend on them to advance your career; make contingency plans
  • Set clear limits on their intrusive behaviors
  • Develop alliances with others in the organization
  • Find ways to make the Navel look good that also benefit the team and organization

8. Situational Management: Tailor Your Approach to Events and Moods

"Tailoring Your Boss Management to Events, Moods, and Other Matters"

Adapt to circumstances. Different situations require adjusting your standard approach to managing your boss. Key situations to consider:

  • Crisis situations
  • Positive achievements
  • Angling for a promotion
  • Implementing risky but necessary ideas

Customize your tactics. For each situation and boss type, adjust your approach:

  • During crises: Help Bullies take decisive action, support Stars in the spotlight, provide data for Scientists
  • After achievements: Remind Bullies of your contribution, help Kaleidoscopes plan next moves, maximize Stars' moment in the sun
  • When seeking promotion: Use indirect methods with Bullies, build a strong case for Good bosses, wait for the right moment with Kaleidoscopes
  • For risky ideas: Prepare thorough arguments for Kaleidoscopes, appeal to Scientists' theories, focus on personal gain for Navels

9. Secondary Boss Types: Recognize and Respond Accordingly

"Many times, people have come up to me and described a boss that defied categorization."

Expand your repertoire. Beyond the six main types, recognize and adapt to secondary boss types:

  • The Laisser-Aller: Set your own objectives and make contingency plans
  • The Parent: Set clear limits and communicate what you need help with
  • The Geek: Find effective modes of communication and capitalize on their expertise
  • Number 2: Understand the real power dynamics and carve your own identity
  • The Con Artist: Verify promises and ask probing questions

Develop a flexible approach. For bosses who don't fit neatly into categories:

  • List their dominant personality traits in work settings
  • Create a descriptive label based on these traits
  • Determine what behaviors they value and what drives them crazy
  • Adapt strategies from similar boss types to fit your unique situation

10. The Seventh Leader: Aspire to and Cultivate Ideal Leadership Qualities

"Seventh Leaders are capable of swallowing their pride and admitting they don't understand something or don't know how to do something."

Recognize ideal leadership. The Seventh Leader represents the pinnacle of managerial effectiveness, combining the best qualities of other types while minimizing their weaknesses. Key characteristics include:

  • Great adaptability to different situations and people
  • Willingness and ability to learn from their team
  • Encouraging and truly absorbing feedback
  • Balancing decisiveness with openness to others' ideas
  • Authenticity and integrity that builds trust

Cultivate Seventh Leader qualities. Whether you're working for a Seventh Leader or aspiring to become one:

  • Practice situational leadership, adjusting your style as needed
  • Actively seek and seriously consider feedback from diverse sources
  • Admit when you don't know something and be open to learning
  • Balance giving direction with empowering your team to contribute
  • Strive for authenticity and consistency in your words and actions

By understanding these key takeaways and applying them to your work relationships, you can significantly improve your ability to manage up, advance your career, and contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "Managing Your Manager" about?

  • Understanding Boss Types: The book by Gonzague Dufour is about understanding different types of bosses and how to effectively manage your relationship with them to advance your career.
  • Six Common Boss Types: It categorizes bosses into six types: the Bully, the Good, the Kaleidoscope, the Star, the Scientist, and the Navel, each with distinct traits and management styles.
  • Strategies for Success: The book provides strategies and tactics for dealing with each type of boss, aiming to improve workplace relationships and personal career growth.
  • Real-Life Examples: Dufour uses real-life examples and personal experiences to illustrate how to handle various managerial challenges.

Why should I read "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Career Advancement: Understanding how to manage your boss can lead to better job performance, promotions, and career satisfaction.
  • Improved Relationships: The book offers insights into building more productive and positive relationships with your boss, regardless of their management style.
  • Practical Advice: It provides practical, actionable advice that can be applied in real-world situations to navigate workplace dynamics effectively.
  • Diverse Perspectives: With examples from different industries and cultures, the book offers a broad perspective on managing up.

What are the key takeaways of "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Know Your Boss Type: Identifying your boss's type is crucial for tailoring your approach and improving your working relationship.
  • Adaptability is Key: Being flexible and adaptable in your interactions can help you manage different boss types effectively.
  • Communication Matters: Clear and strategic communication is essential in managing expectations and building trust with your boss.
  • Self-Reflection: Understanding your own tolerance and preferences can help you decide how to best manage your boss and your career path.

How does Gonzague Dufour categorize bosses in "Managing Your Manager"?

  • The Bully: Aggressive and intimidating, but can deliver results; requires a strategic approach to manage.
  • The Good: Reliable and fair, but may lack innovation; needs encouragement to take calculated risks.
  • The Kaleidoscope: Power-driven and manipulative; requires understanding of their motivations to work effectively with them.
  • The Star: Charismatic and dynamic, but can be impulsive; thrives on drama and requires support to shine.
  • The Scientist: Analytical and theory-driven, but can be rigid; values logic and evidence-based approaches.
  • The Navel: Ego-centric and self-serving; requires careful handling to avoid being overshadowed.

What strategies does "Managing Your Manager" suggest for dealing with a Bully boss?

  • Avoid Surprises: Keep them informed of developments to prevent unexpected reactions.
  • Be a News Source: Provide valuable information that can help them maintain control and power.
  • Develop Expertise: Become indispensable by mastering a skill or area that benefits the team.
  • Limit the Pain: Set personal limits on how long you’ll tolerate the behavior while targeting career gains.

How can you effectively manage a Good boss according to "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Meet Modest Objectives: Consistently deliver on expectations to maintain a positive relationship.
  • Be Transparent: Open and honest communication is valued by Good bosses.
  • Propose Challenges: Suggest projects that push boundaries to keep the work environment engaging.
  • Avoid Game-Playing: Good bosses appreciate straightforwardness and dislike manipulation.

What are the challenges of working with a Kaleidoscope boss as per "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Shifting Personas: They change their style based on the situation, which can be confusing.
  • Power Focused: Their primary motivation is accumulating and consolidating power.
  • Hidden Agendas: They may have ulterior motives that are not immediately apparent.
  • Respect for Power: They respect assertiveness and confidence in their team members.

How does "Managing Your Manager" suggest handling a Star boss?

  • Enjoy the Ride: Embrace the dynamic and exciting work environment they create.
  • Be a Good Listener: Pay attention to their needs and respond quickly to requests.
  • Support Their Drama: Help them shine by providing the support they need to be in the spotlight.
  • Avoid Naysaying: Be cautious about pointing out flaws in their plans, as they prefer positive reinforcement.

What are the professional tactics for working with a Scientist boss in "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Balance Loyalty: Support their theories while maintaining relationships outside their circle.
  • Engage in Dialogue: Take advantage of their willingness to discuss and refine ideas.
  • Help with Experiments: Be involved in their projects to gain their trust and respect.
  • Avoid Emotional Displays: Keep interactions logical and fact-based to align with their style.

How does "Managing Your Manager" describe the Navel boss?

  • Ego-Centric: Their actions are primarily driven by self-interest and ego.
  • Decisive but Selfish: They make quick decisions that often prioritize their own needs.
  • Ruthless: They may sacrifice others to protect their image and position.
  • Sales-Oriented: They are often skilled at selling themselves and their ideas.

What is the Seventh Leader in "Managing Your Manager"?

  • Ideal Boss: The Seventh Leader is an ideal boss who combines the best traits of all types.
  • Adaptable and Learning: They are highly adaptable and willing to learn from their team.
  • Feedback-Oriented: They value and act on feedback from their team members.
  • Supportive and Teaching: They focus on developing their team and fostering a positive work environment.

What are the best quotes from "Managing Your Manager" and what do they mean?

  • "Limit the Pain, Target the Gain": This quote emphasizes setting boundaries with difficult bosses while focusing on career advancement.
  • "Enjoy the Ride": Encourages embracing the dynamic environment created by a Star boss and finding enjoyment in the experience.
  • "Be Indispensably Dependable": Highlights the importance of reliability and consistency when working with a Good boss.
  • "Display Your Own Power Selectively and Strategically": Advises on asserting oneself in a calculated manner when dealing with a Kaleidoscope boss.

Review Summary

3.52 out of 5
Average of 100+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Managing Your Manager receives mixed reviews, with an average rating of 3.53 out of 5. Readers appreciate the book's insights into different manager types and strategies for dealing with them. Some find the advice helpful and practical, while others feel it's outdated or lacks depth. The book's classification of six manager types is seen as a useful framework, though not comprehensive. Critics note that some examples feel dated, and the book may fall short in teaching how to truly "manage" one's manager. Overall, readers find value in considering management perspectives and improving workplace relationships.

Your rating:

About the Author

Gonzague Dufour is a human resources executive with extensive senior-level experience in top companies. His background in HR management provides him with valuable insights into workplace dynamics and leadership styles. Dufour's expertise in understanding various manager types and how to work effectively with them forms the foundation of his book. His approach emphasizes the importance of adapting to different management styles to advance one's career. Dufour's work aims to help employees navigate challenging workplace relationships and turn potentially difficult situations into learning experiences. His perspective as an HR professional offers readers a unique viewpoint on managing upwards in corporate environments.

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