Understand what your manager needs from you and deliver it proactively. Most upward management issues stem from mismatched expectations.
Look for: regular 1:1s with clear agendas, proactive updates on key decisions and risks, understanding their manager's priorities and pressures, adapting communication style, and pushing back constructively when needed. Best candidates describe managing up as a skill, not a political exercise.
Tests organisational awareness and maturity. Leaders who cannot manage up effectively struggle to get resources, air cover, and strategic alignment for their teams.