February 24, 2025

Managing Up: 10 Conversations with Your Manager | Melody Wilding

1 hour 4 minutes

In today’s episode, we discuss the most effective approach to fly up the corporate ladder with Melody Wilding, an executive coach, human behavior expert, and acclaimed author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge. Recognized as one of Business Insider’s “Most Innovative Coaches,” Melody specializes in guiding sensitive high-achievers—from Fortune 500 leaders to creative visionaries—helping them transform self-doubt into confidence, master their emotions, and unlock their full potential in both their careers and personal lives.

What to Listen ForIntroduction – 00:00:00

Overcome the hesitation around having difficult conversations with your boss.

Planting ideas in your manager’s mind for future projects and promotions.

Signs You Need Help to Improve – 00:10:31

What are the signs you need help communicating your goals and ambitions to your boss?

How do you align with your boss on your goals to gain their support and guidance?

Implementing Feedback to Exceed Your Boss’s Expectations – 00:22:40

How do you prioritize feedback to show your boss your commitment to growth and value?

Why should you avoid helping co-workers too much?

Setting Work Boundaries and How to Say No – 00:29:33

How to set workplace boundaries if you struggle with them personally.

How do you say no to extra tasks without hurting your relationship with your boss?

Avoid Single Points of Failure – 00:39:15

How to secure support from multiple leaders in case your boss or key leader leaves?

Strengthen your relationship with your boss while connecting with leadership above them?

Raise Your Visibility and Promotability– 00:47:45

How do you increase your visibility so your manager considers you for promotions?

How do you quit on a high note and maintain a strong reputation, even mid-project?

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Resources from this Episode

Melody Wilding’s website

Managing Up: How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge

Melody Wilding on LinkedIn

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