向上管理‧向下管理：埋頭苦幹沒人理，出人頭地有策略，承上啟下、左右逢源的職場聖典

by Roberta Chinsky Matuson, 蘿貝塔‧勤斯基‧瑪圖森

★本書為《上下管理，讓你更成功！：懂部屬想什麼、老闆要什麼，勝出！》全新修訂版★

一本書，教你會做事也要會做人，
努力工作，也要有策略，
才能受到重用、快速升遷！

有一天，你突然當上主管；為了這一天的來臨，你做好萬全準備了嗎？
作者蘿貝塔．勤斯基．瑪圖森（Roberta Chinsky Matuson），二十四歲就獲得拔擢成為主管，至今她擁有超過二十五年的管理經驗。為了協助新手主管早日上手，作者將自己從當主管第一天的管理經驗寫成本書。

本書分為〈向上管理〉與〈向下管理〉兩篇，第一篇〈向上管理〉引用彼得．杜拉克（Peter Drucker）的名言：

「你不需要喜歡或欽佩你的主管，你也不需要痛恨他。但是，你必須要管理他，好讓他變成你達成目標、追求成就與獲得個人成功的資源」。

只要有工作就會有主管或老闆，為了得到資源、交出成果，就必須學習如何向上管理。像是如何了解主管的管理風格？如何應付各種類型的主管？又該如何要求加薪？

作者強調，向上管理並不是逢迎諂媚，而是協助主管與老闆達成目標，運用影響力讓主管與老闆都挺你。

第二篇〈向下管理〉協助新手主管定義自己的新角色，熟悉選才、育才與留才的訣竅；進一步了解如何以主管的身分，建立你與部屬之間的關係和職責；包括：新官上任後應有的心態、建立信任的方法、管理問題員工的訣竅；此外，還包括如何管理年紀足以當你父母的年長部屬？如何以圓融的方式進行裁員？

本書以「尊重」為出發點，強調不論對主管或部屬，永遠都用尊重的心態來看待對方，進而處理階級與關係變化，通過辦公室政治的考驗與人性的試煉。

Genres: Leadership, Business, Management, Nonfiction, Self Help, Personal Development, Audiobook

279 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 6, 2011

Reviews

[Nadya Ichinomiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not just for first time managers, I love this book!

This book is really two books in one. It starts with the "managing up" part so if you have a boss, I highly recommend you read this useful, engaging, and "tell it like it is" book. I learned some things in the "managing down" part and definitely wish that this book had been around when I first started managing people.

I've been in the workforce for decades so I wasn't sure if this book would bring any new insights. IT DID! Loved the section on how to create a vision or mission with your team.

I listened to the audiobook and found the author's reading of her book to be an added bonus.

[Anne Fox · Rating 2 out of 5]

I appreciate that this is the third edition of this book so it must be successful. This edition is only half a book with no explanation as to why that is the case. The section on ‘Managing Down’ was completely omitted. The chapters are relatively short and are in the structure of ‘ tell them what you’re going to tell them , tell them and then summarise what you told them’. It is a very basic introduction to management. It is also American based - references are to American TV shows and icons. I got irritated by the alternate use of pronouns - sometimes he/him sometimes she/her and very occasionally they/them. A note at the beginning that one pronoun was intended to be inclusive would have sufficed. Perhaps , younger managers are more likely to take offence at using only one. As a management skills trainer of 25 years experience, I didn’t learn anything new. I would have liked some graphics to break up the monotony of the printed page. Thank you to NetGalley and Nicholas Brealey publishing for a prepublication ebook.

[Dora Okeyo · Rating 4 out of 5]

While reading this book I came across a key point that the author states one must be vigilant and I wrote it down as a reminder when I step out to work every morning "Commitment always trumps compliance, and engagement will help ensure commitment."
There is something comforting about this book- and it's in the way the author explores workplace dynamics, from your team, the system in place, policies, mission and your bosses- and what to be on the lookout for and do more of- like being firmly rooted in getting the job done, and what to do less of if possible not to ever do-gossip.
For anyone in the work space- I bet this would come as a great guide, on the ethics and professionalism aspects to adorn.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.

[Justinas Rastenis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good starting guidance for new leaders.

[CraftyBirdies · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I was going to give it 3.5, but then I realized it was a very quick read, easy to understand, and had a lot of good nuggets in it to apply real life into do's and don'ts. I read the managing down section first and wasn't going to read the managing up, but then as I started into it to glance and determine if I should read it, I realized it had a lot of helpful tips. Some apply and some don't, but even reading about having a bad boss gives some insight about how not to be a bad boss! All in all I think this is very good for new managers/supervisors, but it does focus a lot on corporate, big organizations. This is less helpful for teachers, small business employees, etc. but again, there are helpful nuggets, and being a short and easy read it's worth picking up!

[Justin Tapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suddenly in Charge: Managing Up, Managing Down, Succeeding All Around by Roberta Chinsky Matuson

This is the first book I have seen for mid-level managers, and I like how it's organized -- half is focused on managing up and the other is focused on managing down. Each chapter also ends with a bullet-point summary. I gleaned excellent points from both halves, quotes that I will incorporate both in how I deal with frustrating bosses as well as direct reports who want to know that I value their well-being above that of the organization. Tips on dealing with your boss and figuring out his communication style are helpful, as are figuring out when it's time to let go and look elsewhere for a different position or company. The author gives a lot of credit to other authors, quoting extensively and providing references.

Its limitations are that it's not as applicable for those working in government agencies (what management book is?) or for those who may be working in large corporations with extensive HR operations. While she gives some of her own management experience, she also seems to have consulted with some obscure companies, from which she gathers some quotes to open each chapter. Some of the anecdotes are helpful, some seem a bit dated already. My biggest criticism of the book is in chapters on the well-being of employees under your management. She writes about 90 day probationary periods (which aren't a legal thing in any state; a company still has to give a reason for firing you) and convincing an employee to resign rather than fire him, neglecting to mention that doing so saves the company from having to pay unemployment benefits and can make the employee worse off.

I came across the book in the office of an embassy colleague who was just beginning her first overseas assignment and suddenly in charge of a bunch of young Marines and other security guards while answering to two other people above her in her immediate office; she was reading it slowly. I picked it up as I also was suddenly in charge of running day-to-day operations in an office while spending a great deal of time managing up. Anyone working in government, especially the Foreign Service, is painfully mindful of the chain of command and as well as the challenge of inheriting personnel (not easily changed) who may try to vet you while you figure out the ropes.

The most helpful advice for me came in managing employees and how "a strong leader provides a constant stream of feedback," rather than waiting until annual evaluation season. She provides questions all leaders should be asking their people regularly, including asking for self-evaluation. One powerful idea is to begin your new employee's first day with telling them how you know they will not be there forever, and how you hope that after they've worked for you they will have obtained the skills they need for their next big thing. This kind of "leave speech" actually encourages your employers to stay. The author doesn't state it explicitly, but employees don't work for companies, they work for their managers. No matter the great benefits or prestige of the organization, if the boss is terrible, the direct hire will look elsewhere pretty quickly. A boss should be quick to ask what resources an employee needs from him/her to be more successful and enjoy the job. If a boss isn't in the trenches with his employee, then he will never know himself. Also, a boss should take note of an employee's work anniversary and celebrate it like a birthday or other special occasion.

I give this book 4 stars out of 5. It's helpful, with limitations, and well-organized.

Two books she references that I will one day check out: Brag! The Art of Tooting your Own Horn without Blowing It, by Peggy Klaus and the author's own book The Magnetic Leader.

[Leslie Graff · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good general book for new managers. The advice may be common sense but it's quick and easily digestible so you can take it in without getting overwhelmed - perfect for someone who needs a foundation before jumping in. As an experienced leader, I found this to be a good set of bite sized reminders about best practices and things to consider. At times, some of the advice felt a little dated but overall, it's a helpful read. As a book person, I liked the gimmick of reading the first half in one direction and flipping the book over to read the other direction, especially as it's tied up in the whole theme of being "topsy turvy" when you're new to management. Probably not a guide to keep on the shelf as you progress through leadership, but a good starter book for general audiences.

[Beloved · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recommend for anyone who's found themselves suddenly in charge. You may have heard some of the information presented in this book already, but the reality is that many of us will find ourselves in a managerial or supervisory position without further training or preparation to tackle the shift from being a staff worker. The book contains simple and actionable advice for managing up with your superiors and managing down with your charges and has been updated for recent shifts in the work environment, such as remote working and the coming together of multiple generations in the work space.

[Svitlana Nova · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would say that this book is packed with a lot of great advice, but it's not meant to be divulged in one go. Rather, it's a book that you'd want to pick up again and again as you encounter different situations in your career as a manager. I'm saying this because while the advice seems obvious if you have never encountered the situations, it is life-saving if you are in the middle of the situation and face-palming if you have already gone through the situation and made mistakes in handling it.

[David Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great read for anyone looking to move into management, and for those wanting to become great managers. Matuson first discusses how to manage 'up' in your organization, which can put you in a good position for promotion. The second half of the book discusses managing 'down', which outlines traits that will make you a good manager. It is a must read for anyone that is new to management or for anyone who is looking to move up the corporate ladder. I highly recommend it.

[Martine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would recommend this for newer managers or newly promoted people (or even people who are looking to grow into management roles).
Nothing that blew my mind but there were helpful and practical tips. Would probably gift to managers in my workplace.
The section on managing up (half the book) is helpful even for non-managers, as managing up is important in every role.

[Ahmad Hesham · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is more about how to "be managed" or managing your boss rather than actually managing people. Nevertheless, the book is brief and offers truly helpful office wisdom for most common interactions and conflicts anyone is likely to encounter within their first couple of years in any working environment.

[Tara Nichol · Rating 4 out of 5]

My big fan of Roberta Matuson. Loved the key points section at the end of each chapter.

Giving it a 4 because some parts got repetitive. And I would have liked some more examples for companies in the smaller sizes for comparison.

[Nicole Nunes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first listened to this book in audio and learned a lot. I feel like so much so that I am going to go and buy it and keep it as a reference and for notes. There were things that I feel like I do and others that I feel I need more work on. I would give this book to anyone who was just promoted.

[Anthony Risi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing Ground Breaking here, but overall a useful book for anyone new to a management position. I also liked that it touched on both managing Down and Up as most management books and trainings are just about managing your direct reports and not how to work with those above you in an organization.

[Christopher Sweet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book to help you build your professional soft skills! Highly recommend

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful, practical advice and well-written.

[Hande · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick guide for managers. Very useful!

[Michael Wolcott · Rating 4 out of 5]

The managing up side had some really great actionable advice. The manage down side was nothing particularly helpful. Definitely something that is good for a new manager.

[Lemon_leaf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although some of the reference is a little outdated, the book provided useful tools for managing up and managing down.

[Russ · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you need this book you aren’t ready for management

[Liz Askew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good refresher for the workplace. Most tips are common sense, but an easy read and good perspective from both sides.

[Reena · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have only read the yellow half. I know she's American but the way she talks about getting fired makes me so sad. Good pointers in the previous sections. Looking forward to needing the white half.

Update Jan 18: finished the white half and I still think the same. But good advice in the rest of the sections.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a young professional, “Suddenly In Charge” contains tips, tricks, and all around advice that is incredibly helpful that I’ve already considered how to fit it into my career. Particularly, I’ve found myself in some sticky situations (and incredibly stress-filled ones) because I have a hard time saying “no” to everything that’s asked of me. It can feel, especially as a young person in the work force, that the only way to prove yourself and continue moving up the ladder is to do anything that’s asked of you, but Matuson clearly outlines how being a yes-man can harm you professionally as well as give easy ways to say no and when to say it. All in all, I can clearly see how implementing what I’ve learned in this book will improve my professional life and help me continue the progress that I’ve made in it.

[Matthew Hodge · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was just changing jobs (not necessarily to lead a team, but it is a step up), so I thought I'd give this a read as preparation.

The good part is that the book is short and easy to read and has the added bonus of giving you information on managing up (ie managing your bosses) and managing down (ie managing any staff under you. The stuff in there is pretty common sense.

The biggest negative is that all of the info feels like it's drawn only from the author's personal experience or a couple of other people she's spoken to. It could be a stylistic thing but the end result is that you feel like you're reading opinion rather than something that has been heavily researched.

Still, good for a quick overview and I can read other heavier books if I need more info.

[Kelly Lynn Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is clear and concise, which I really value. It's a good, simple overview that lays out best practices for managing both your direct reports and your boss to get the most out of your career. I especially appreciated the chapter that explain how to tell when/if something is going terribly wrong. The author puts a strong emphasis on open, honest communication.

[Christine Kayser · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was assigned this book to read in preparation for a management training session at work. I think it's useful. There's a lot of common sense stuff in here, but if you've been dropped into management without training, I can see how it would be really valuable. (i.e. This would have been more useful to me a few years ago.)

[David Dalka · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. This book is great for anyone thrust into leading a situation (corporate or otherwise) to create confidence in managing up or down. The part on managing up will be the part most interesting to a general management reader.

[Robert Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best part of this book is how clear and simple the writing style is. I've read similar stuff before, in much thicker and more complex books. I really liked how compact and to the point this book is, I recommend it for anyone who wants a quick and valuable read on managing up and/or down.

[Alastair McRae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the half about managing up to be a lot more helpful than the half about managing down. I'm a low level manager and I think the managing down part would be more helpful to a middle level manager.