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Apr 08 • 4 min read

how to manage your UX manager


Newsletter written by Chris


Read time: 1m 12s

Sit back and soak this in…

Managing up doesn’t mean sucking up.

It's about making your boss's life easier (so they can make your life better).

Help them help you kinda thing.

It’s about being proactive. Anticipate problems before they blow up. Understand your manager's goals and help them crush 'em.

Own your shit like Kanye owns the stage. Don't wait for someone to hold your hand. Step up and lead, even if it's not in your job title.

I don’t want to hear “it’s not my job”. Instead, how about “it’s already done”.

And for the love of the Pokemon, communicate! Don't assume your manager knows what's up. Update them regularly, ask for feedback, and adapt your style to what works for them.

Don't just be a yes-man (or yes-woman).

A real thought partner challenges ideas respectfully. Use data to push back when needed. That's how you earn trust and influence.

And one more thing...

Empathy isn't just for users. Extend that same courtesy to your manager. They're human too (believe it or not).

I could go on, but I'd rather you see for yourself…

I wrote in detail in this article:

  • The 4 communication styles and how to adapt to each
  • A 1:1 meeting template that'll make you stand out
  • Scripts for pushing back without getting fired 😬

This stuff is important if you’re navigating a corporate environment.

Implement just a few of these tactics and watch your manager start singing your praises.

Who knows? Maybe you’ll get that promotion you’ve been wishing for.

Go get ‘em.

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The goings ons

Happenings & shenanigans in the (design) world and beyond

ATTENTION

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From May 1st, 2026, I'll be sending this email from chris@mail.rectangles.fm. You will no longer be receiving emails from this address (hello@uxplaybook.org).

Add my new email to your contact and check your spam folder if you don't hear from me.

Announcing something soon. See you on the other side ✌️

Just point and talk to AI. This exploration of multi-input interaction with AI Interfaces is a masterpiece of a case study. For anyone working on their portfolio, TAKE NOTES! Well done Diana Lu.

Shopify.design is just WOW. You can tell how much the team cares about project. You have to click and hold. So many fun interactions and details.

type.vibe helps you decide typography of your project. Love these kinda minimal industrial-looking tools right now. It's a proper vibe.

Did you like today's issue? Hit reply and let me know. I'll keep writing if you keep reading.

That's it for today.

Speak soon 💛

— Chris

I help UX designers go from Fuzziness to Focused, 3 types of designers I help:

1. Entry-level designer? Transition into UX by crafting an unforgettable portfolio

2. Mid-level or Senior designer? Step up and become a design leader

3. Lead or Manager? Get private 1 on 1 coaching to maximise your impact

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