“Managing up” is currently attracting a lot of attention on TikTok. The method is supposed to help employees gain more power and a greater say. But there are also opposing voices that see the trend as problematic. It is less problematic to just enjoy 22Bet.
TikTok has long been more than just a platform for dance challenges and viral trends. Currently, Generation Z influencers in particular are recommending a strategy called “managing up” there. The idea of “managing up” recently went viral on the platform, but is not new in itself. It involves the art of forming a strategic relationship with superiors in order to optimize one’s job satisfaction and performance.
The hashtag #advancementmanagement currently counts 5.6 million views on TikTok. On the platform, the strategy is touted as an effective method of adapting the job to one’s own needs. The strategic approach is also often referred to as “cheffing” or “leadership from below”.
MANAGING UP
TikToker Amy shows in a video how to behave when bosses ask employees to stay late and work overtime. She stresses the importance of standing your ground, “but in a smart way.” In her video, she suggests speaking openly with superiors.
In particular, if you have already completed all your tasks within the regular working hours and are nevertheless asked to extend, you should provide concrete examples of the work you have done. She also advises remaining as reasonable and “emotionally neutral” as possible in the discussion. This is the only way to reach an agreement that both sides can be satisfied with.
TikTokerin Marie Carmen Pizzaro explains under the hashtag “Managing up” how to better master the interaction with superiors. According to a mentor’s advice, this involves “building a strong relationship” in which employees can freely express ideas, needs and visions for the future to managers.
A PROVEN METHOD?
Experts are also convinced of the “managing up” method: Andy Molinsky, Professor of Organizational Behavior at Brandeis International Business School, explains to Business Insider that “managing up” helps shape the boss’s impression of you and inspires respect for trustworthiness and skills.
In addition, this strategy can accelerate career advancement, as it is a sign of “emergent leadership,” Vladislav Rivkin, associate professor of organizational behavior at Trinity Business School, told Business Insider.
CRITICISM: A TOXIC ENVIRONMENT?
Despite the hype, some TikTokers have doubts about the added value of “management upwards,” as they believe it could be an indicator of a problematic work environment. In a video with over 63,000 views, TikTokerin kash.ia explains that an imbalance of power occurs when workers:ins are forced to direct their superiors without being adequately compensated.
Below the video is a user’s approving comment, “I’ve had to manage a lot and it feels like I’m babysitting a person who doesn’t know what she’s doing but she’s my:boss:in. Just pay ME.”
So, the extent to which the strategy achieves more benefits for individuals or may even be more detrimental is unclear. Managing up is not the panacea it is sometimes portrayed as in TikTok videos.