Browse all

manage up

C1 formal inseparable intransitive

To proactively manage the relationship with your own managers or superiors, anticipating their needs and communicating strategically to ensure smooth collaboration.

In plain English

Learn how to work well with your boss and make sure they trust and support you.

What does "manage up" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 C1 idiomatic formal

To build a productive relationship with superiors by understanding their priorities, communicating proactively, and aligning your work with their expectations.

"Learning to manage up is just as important as leading your own team effectively."

inseparable
Usage tip

Business and management jargon. Carries a neutral or positive connotation — it is seen as a professional skill, not manipulation. Common in leadership development contexts.

Words that pair with "manage up"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

effectively skills boss leadership executive relationship

How to conjugate "manage up"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
manage up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
manages up
he/she/it
Past simple
managed up
yesterday
Past participle
managed up
have + pp
-ing form
managing up
continuous

Hear "manage up" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "manage up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "manage up"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

align with leadership influence upward manage your boss

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.