Significant Career Lesson From a Director of Business Operations at Select Star
The most significant lesson Alec learned is "the ability to manage up," proactively anticipating needs and communicating effectively. This involves presenting solutions, not just problems, building trust by demonstrating initiative and competence, and ultimately, ensuring that management has confidence in their ability to handle challenges.
Communication, Problem-Solving, Executive/Leadership, Overcoming Challenges, Practical
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alec Bialosky
Director of Business Operatins
Select Star
Tufts 2011
UCLA Anderson (MBA)
Engineering - Civil
Technology
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Proactive communication is key: Don't wait for your boss to ask for updates; anticipate their needs and provide solutions.
2. Manage up, not the other way around: Understand your boss's priorities and expectations, and communicate proactively.
3. Prioritize problem-solving and present solutions: When facing challenges, present solutions or options, rather than simply stating the problem. This builds trust and demonstrates initiative.
Transcript
What is one lesson learned that has proven significant in your career?
One of the most important lessons I've learned is the ability to manage up. Don't wait for people to ask you the status of things; always try to anticipate other people's needs.
You should be managing your boss, not the other way around. Understand what they're going to want and give it to them. When you need help, be proactive about it. Don't wait for them to ask you.
If you have problems, come to them with solutions, if you can. I always think about it in a priority stack: "I had a problem, I solved it, I'm just letting you know." Or, "I had a problem, here's what I want to do, are you okay with it?" Or, "I have a problem, here are my options, I'm not sure which one."
And then, "I have a problem, I don't know what to do." That's the worst, but it's still better than not saying, "Hey, I have a problem." Because the next time your boss asks you and you say, "Actually, I'm stuck," they're going to worry about whether you're stuck on other things.
This is versus trusting that you're fine because you haven't raised your hand for help. They'll know you'll tell them if you need something. I think that's a really critical skill for anyone entering the workforce to understand. Over-communication and upwards management really help to build trust within the organization.
Advizer Personal Links
No