Managing Up
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functional teams to broaden it. Share what
you’ve learned with your boss, either in writing
or during check-ins.
• Cite trusted sources. Name the people you’ve
spoken with about your ideas, recount their
reactions and experiences, and refer your man-
ager to them when that’s feasible. Testimonials
from folks your boss respects will go a long way.
• Offer proof of concept. Initiate your own tests,
particularly if you’re not able to gain fi rsthand
experience in an existing forum. For example,
you might run a mini-experiment with your
own direct reports before suggesting that your
manager try it with you and others who report
to her.
With trust and expertise in your arsenal, you’re
more likely to succeed in any negotiation you