The Unspoken Rules of Getting Ahead in Big Tech
This article outlines the unspoken rules for achieving top-tier performance ratings in a large technology company, offering insights into managing up and navigating the complex dynamics beyond simply adhering to company values. These rules are often not explicitly taught or discussed but are crucial for career advancement.
Managing Up: Creating Leverage
The Illusion of Flattery
Many believe managing up involves flattery or blind obedience. However, simply agreeing with everything your boss says or doing exactly as instructed is ineffective. Bosses often change their minds, and constantly correcting them only creates friction.
The Truth About Leverage
The real key to managing up is creating leverage. Your boss should feel that their progress is significantly hindered without your contributions. This involves positioning yourself as an indispensable asset.
Understanding Your Boss's Perspective
Recognize that your boss, despite their position, is also likely stretched and working at the edge of their capabilities. They need someone who is aligned with their objectives but possesses a deeper understanding of how to achieve them. Offer well-thought-out solutions and proposals instead of just waiting for instructions.
Capability is Essential
You must know your subject matter thoroughly. Consistently making promises you can't keep will erode trust and damage your reputation. Being capable is the first step in creating leverage.
The Invisible Dance: Loyalty and Credit
The Importance of Perception
Even if highly capable, making your boss look bad, even unintentionally, can be detrimental to your career. The "invisible dance" is about skillfully navigating these dynamics.
The Art of Delivering Proposals
Present your well-researched proposals behind closed doors, directly to your boss. When your ideas succeed, allow your boss to take the credit publicly. Good managers will often share the credit anyway, as their performance is partially based on their team's success.
The Value of Making Your Boss Look Good
Giving your boss the satisfaction of being a good manager is crucial. Avoid claiming credit yourself or reminding them to acknowledge your contributions, as this can be perceived negatively.
Capability Plus Loyalty
In summary, your boss needs to feel you have their back and that your goals are fully aligned. Making them look good to their superiors and colleagues is essential. Capability combined with loyalty creates true leverage, making you irreplaceable.
Beyond Managing Up: Core Competencies and Cultural Fit
Managing up is not the only factor. Choosing the right core competencies and navigating the subtle nuances of cultural fit are also critical. Understanding what skills are truly valued and what company culture really means is the next step.
The Price of Success: Is it Worth It?
Striving for top-tier ratings may lead to a higher salary and temporary satisfaction, but it doesn't guarantee happiness. It's essential to consider whether the sacrifices required align with your personal values and long-term well-being. Ask yourself what truly makes you happy and if this path helps you to reach it. The constant 'game' might not be worth the prize.
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