Your manager is wrong and you know it. Practice how to disagree upward — firmly, professionally, and in a way that makes them glad you spoke.
Part of
Managing Up →
The most underrated workplace skill. From making your work visible to your manager, to pushing back on bad decisions and navigating your boss's boss — practice the conversations that shape how your career is seen from above.
Skills you'll build
What happens in this story4 scenarios
Your manager just announced a decision that will set the team back three months. Everyone nods. Your jaw tightens — you know this is wrong, and staying quiet will cost more than speaking up.
You have the data. The numbers are on your side. Now you have to present them without making your manager feel stupid — because the moment they feel attacked, the facts stop mattering.
You made your case. They pushed back harder. The room is watching to see if you fold or escalate — and neither option is the right one.
The decision went their way. You still disagree. Now you have to commit fully to something you argued against — and mean it.
More stories in this course
View all →The Invisible Work
You're doing great work. Nobody above you knows it. Learn to make your contributions visible without bragging — and change how your manager sees you.
4 scenarios →The Skip-Level
Your boss's boss wants a one-on-one. This is either a gift or a test. Learn to navigate the power dynamics above your manager without burning bridges below.
4 scenarios →The Promotion Ask
You have been doing the job above you for six months. Time to be paid for it. Navigate the conversation that most people delay too long.
4 scenarios →The Pushback
Your manager is wrong and you know it. Practice how to disagree upward — firmly, professionally, and in a way that makes them glad you spoke.
Start free →4 scenarios · 25 min · No account required to try