'I need your support' can mean several different things. You may need a decision, a resource, permission to change a plan or simply a perspective you do not yet have. Managing up becomes easier when you name which one you are asking for.
In senior living, an Executive Director and regional partner may see the same issue from different levels of responsibility. The community needs a workable response today. The regional partner may also need to consider consistency, financial constraints and consequences across several locations.
Prepare a brief decision note before a nonurgent discussion. Explain the situation, the relevant evidence, the options you considered and your recommendation. State the specific decision you need and when you need it. Keep the note proportionate; a routine question does not require a presentation.
Suppose a recurring vacancy is creating scheduling pressure. Rather than sending another message that staffing is difficult, describe the current coverage arrangement, what has been tried, the limits of that approach and the option you recommend. Ask which tradeoff the organization is prepared to support.
Leave room to learn. Your regional partner may have information that changes the recommendation. Ask what you are missing and clarify how the decision will be communicated. Afterward, record the agreed action, owner and review point through normal company channels.
Put it into practice: choose one issue you have raised more than once. Rewrite the request so the needed decision is unmistakable. Coaching can help you examine whether you are asking clearly, anticipating rejection or expecting the other person to infer the support you need. A better conversation starts with a request the other person can actually answer.
Related perspective: raising a useful challenge.
Share your perspective
What would make conversations with your regional partner more productive? I would like to hear your experience—even if you see it differently.
Email Douglas your thoughts at douglas@thriveon365.com. No need to book a call to share a thought. Please leave out identifying resident, employee or confidential company information.
Douglas Blake | Executive Director & Coach · Explore coaching with Thrive On 365
