3 Ways to Add Value to your Manager’s Manager

Jeff -

Hey friends - I’ve recently received a lot of positive feedback after incorporating more Google Gemini (i.e. AI) content in the Productivity Ping.

I’d like to get a sense check of whether you’d want to see more AI-related content in The Debrief as well, so if you have ~3 minutes, please fill out this survey.

Just for your reference, “Gemini Overload: Google's Latest Updates” is an example of an AI-focused post, and “The Consequences of Unsolicited Advice” is what I would usually write for The Debrief.

Onto today’s Debrief

All the companies I’ve ever worked at have had an “open-door” policy whereby senior directors would say that no matter how junior you were, you’re “always welcome” to drop by and have a chat.

I’ve always had to stop myself from rolling my eyes at these announcements because let’s be honest, it would be career suicide to walk in without a good reason.

Then this happened

During a 1:1 with my manager, I made an offhand remark that was something along the lines of, “Yea right, I’m sure [senior director] would LOVE to hear about this silly issue.”

My manager looked at me and said, “Oh that’s a great idea. [Senior director] actually just mentioned during a leads meeting she wants to hear more on-the-ground stories.”

The 3 fool-proof topics you can bring up with your manager’s manager

It took me a while to really internalize this but it wasn’t rank or title that dictated who should or shouldn’t communicate with senior leaders, but the amount of value they can bring.

Here are 3 topics I've found to work well:

  1. Customer success stories - Senior leaders are always looking for case studies they can use to tell their own story (internally and externally) so if you can find a high-impact client story and offer to put together a cohesive presentation, senior leaders will make time for you.
  2. Share a challenge - The pro tip here is you need to find a challenge or problem the entire team faces (because if it’s just you it’s a complaint). Bonus points if you already took steps to resolve it and you’re asking for the senior leader’s help (e.g. their sponsorship).
  3. Ask to be connected with a mentor - Contrary to popular belief, you SHOULD NOT ask senior leaders for advice. They’re way too senior and it’s a waste of time for both of you. Instead, tell them to introduce you a mentor who’s just 1 step ahead of you, who is on a path you want to be on.

Have you tried any of these methods? Let me know in the comments!

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