Things Your Manager Doesn’t Tell You

If you’ve ever spent time in a workplace where you have felt unsure, dismissed, or were passed up for a promotion, you may need some insider information. There are some things your manager will never tell you, though it may be in the best interest of the company and your career to know them. We’ve gathered some tips for you to review to help revolutionize your work life.

Your manager may never say these things, but you need to hear them:

I May Not Be Qualified to Be Your Manager

And I knew exactly what to do. But in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.  – Michael Scott, The Office

The sad truth of this secret is that sometimes you may work for someone less skilled and qualified than you. It is not in your manager’s interest to advertise this lack, so you will probably find out by observation. The best thing you can do in this scenario is to support your manager with your skills and qualifications – while making them look good. It’s important not to undercut your manager but to emphasize your commitment to the company and to be a good team player.

If you want to use this to your advantage, keep a record of contributions you’ve made to the company so when a promotion gets brought up, you have the evidence to back you. Chances are, if you’ve helped your manager feel less stressed, complete their workload and look good, you’ll be favoured for a promotion.

I Won’t Be Around Forever

Once I’m officially Regional Manager, my first order of business will be to demote Jim Halpert. So I will need a new number two. My ideal choice? Jack Bauer. But he is unavailable. Fictional. And over-qualified. – Dwight Schrute, The Office

Though your manager may seem like the All-Seeing Eye at your workplace, it’s important to remember that they are working on a career trajectory that probably doesn’t include working with you forever.

Pay attention to who is being lined up as the next manager. Be sure to keep positive workplace relationships with them. This will establish opportunities once the power dynamics shift.

I’m Not In Charge of Your Promotion

Business is a doggie dog world. And I am a shark who eats doggie dogs. – Michael Scott, The Office

While your manager may want you to believe that they hold all the cards to your career, that it is almost always untrue. There are things you can do to advance your career without your manager’s permission or approval.

There are two important suggestions we can give you. First, build a good rapport with the entire company, especially CEOs and business owners. Second, promote yourself within the company. Yes, this includes directly asking for promotions, or opportunities that may not normally be handed to you.

Your Attitude Matters As Much As Your Work Ethic

“The doctor said, if I can’t find a new way to relate more positively to my surroundings, I’m going to die. I’m going to die.” – Stanley Hudson, The Office

As much as your manager will emphasize a good work ethic, make sure your general attitude at work is positive. When people see you enjoying your life and your job, it contributes to a better work atmosphere for all. You could become people’s go-to if you’ve got a great work ethic to match the great attitude.

Even your manager will notice this, and as they say, ‘honey catches more flies than vinegar’. Check out Psychology Today’s tips for having a positive attitude.

Fake It ‘Til You Make It… It’s a Real Thing

Sometimes I’ll start a sentence, and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way. – Michael Scott, The Office

Confidence in the workplace will only help you. Your manager should be comfortable giving you feedback on your work ethic and quality of work, but it’s unlikely they will help you develop your personality.

If you feel unsure in your job, projecting an aura of self-confidence can often give you the motivation you need to figure it out.

Find the Balance Between Socializing and Working

I talk a lot, so I’ve learned to just tune myself out… – Kelly Kapoor, The Office

We all know that one coworker who would rather sit alone in a cubicle and pump-out work as fast as a robot (yes, Dwight, we’re looking at you). Turns out, working too hard can be a bad thing. And we know your manager won’t bring this up with you unless you’re costing the company money.

On the flip side, being that one employee who doesn’t stop talking will not endear you to your coworkers. It gives the impression that you’re not serious about your job and honestly it gets annoying.

Creating a balance between socializing and working can help you foster great coworker relationships, and help to keep you positive about your job.

About the Author

Simon Chou is the Vice President of Operations and Growth at BCjobs.ca. Over the course of his career, he carved a niche in brand development,  marketing strategy, and online presence for startups. Prior to BC Jobs, he served as a marketing advisor for high-profile blockchain projects including Litecoin, NEM and Ripple. He’s also worked with fortune 500 companies in the healthcare space.