Occasionally hear people ask for help "managing up" presumably to help their boss be better. The implication is clear, you want to help your boss succeed. Management is a responsibility that doesn't extend to you managing your boss. It can be dangerous.

Management is a specific role. Most likely you are managing people. Sometimes projects. These reflect parts of your job for which you are responsible and your performance is measured. Your boss is responsible for managing you.

Unlike your staff, you are not responsible for your boss' results. You are responsible to support your boss and your organization. Your success is tied directly to that of your boss. You will rarely succeed if your boss fails.

In supporting your boss, your tools are different than the tools you have with your staff. There is no expectation that you know more about what's happening in the organization than your boss. Nor does the organization trust you more than your boss. You shouldn't expect your boss to change her behavior even if you think that is the right decision.

The organization expects your boss to measure your performance. The leaders of the org have placed a responsibility on your boss. You should expect that even if you're sure you know more, the organization will seek counsel from your boss before you.

A good boss will be inclusive of you in her role. She will ask for feedback and want to ensure you are aligned. I am not often asked about "managing up" when someone has a good boss. it may be a red flag if you think you need to change your boss' behavior to ensure your success or deliver results.

The glib response I sometimes give to make the point is "if you want to manage your boss, get promoted twice." The power dynamic does not support giving your boss feedback or expecting him to change.

Your job is to deliver results under the direction of your boss. You both need to be on the same page and supporting her priorities. If you find it difficult to support your boss without expecting a behavior change, you might want to consider finding a new one.