Project Failure Files: Not Managing Up
In Episode 73 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, our focus was “Mistaking Star Performers for Star Leaders,” in which Sharon and I take on one of the most uncomfortable but essential leadership skills: managing up. When managers avoid upward communication out of fear of conflict, politics, or being perceived as incompetent, leadership is left making decisions with incomplete information. The result is predictable and painful: missed risks, under-resourced teams, and avoidable surprises that land hardest on the people doing the work.
The conversation digs into why silence often feels safer than escalation, even when it clearly isn’t. Sharon and I explore how managers unintentionally absorb pressure in an attempt to protect their teams, only to create bigger problems when issues surface too late. We unpack the cultural impact of this behavior, where “keeping your head down” becomes normalized and advocating for your team is quietly discouraged.
Most importantly, the episode provides practical guidance on how to manage up effectively. From reading leadership styles and escalating strategically, to highlighting team wins and navigating difficult managers with confidence and respect, we attempt to reframe managing up as a core leadership responsibility. Done well, it builds trust, improves decision-making, and ensures teams get the support they need to succeed—without burning bridges or playing politics.
Enjoy the episode!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, January 19th at 9am Pacific for the latest episode in our weekly series. Hope you can join us on our NEW YouTube channel (please subscribe!), or find us on LinkedIn.
