Stop fearing your boss and start helping them thrive

You sit across from your manager as she paces the room, phone in hand, charming a top investor. Numbers fly by—market share, margins, EBITDA—but it’s her gift for persuasion that seals deals. Afterward, you wonder: how do you get your ideas heard in that whirlwind?

You start by watching her in action: her voice rises with excitement on strategic wins, her notes focus on big-picture impact, and she thrives on live dialogue rather than dense reports. The next time you need to brief her, you lead with a concise summary of market reactions and follow with bullet-point recommendations she can riff on.

Soon, your data cuts fuel her storytelling. She asks for your slides first because they set the stage for her narrative. Together, you close client deals faster, and her energy feels contagious. By channeling her strength—connective charisma—you become an indispensable partner.

This dynamic is rooted in the strength-based approach: instead of trying to fix what your boss can’t do, you amplify what they do best. When you frame your updates to let them shine, you align your contributions with their natural talents and create a partnership that drives performance.

Leaders are human—they crave moments to use their strengths. By tailoring your communication style and content, you empower both of you to achieve more.

Start by watching how your boss operates—notice whether they excel in public speaking, data analysis, or crisis management. Then frame your next update around that strength—lead with what they love to do. Offer to support them in areas they’re strongest at, whether drafting talking points or modeling numbers. Finally, deliver your brief in the format they prefer—email, slides, or huddle—and watch how quickly they act. Give it a try with your next interaction.