It is common for managers to support their employees’ growth by providing them with opportunities to connect with their skip-level managers. However, some managers, despite wanting to see their team members succeed, may have concerns about being overshadowed by them. There is also a fear that the employee may go above their head to report directly to higher management or switch teams, unintentionally creating a barrier for the high-performing employees.
To avoid these potential pitfalls, it is important to be intentional and strategic in managing the skip-level relationship between your employee and your boss. If you have a star performer on your team that you want to nurture and retain but have reservations about their advancement, consider implementing the following five strategies:
- Identify your concerns and fears regarding the situation.
- Clarify to your boss the reasons behind connecting your employee with them.
- Discuss openly with your boss about the projects and tasks your employee is working on.
- Understand the dynamics of skip-level meetings that your boss engages in to ensure alignment.
