# Managing Up Review (2026): 7.6/10 · Coursera · Paid

> Independent review of Managing Up Course on Coursera. Rated 7.6/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top alternatives. Certificate available. Upd…

Business & Management Courses

Managing Up Course

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# Managing Up Course — Review (7.6/10)

This course offers practical strategies for improving relationships with managers, focusing on communication, feedback, and proactive behavior. While it lacks advanced frameworks, it's a solid introdu...

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Managing Up Course is a 8 weeks online beginner-level course on Coursera by Arizona State University that covers business & management. This course offers practical strategies for improving relationships with managers, focusing on communication, feedback, and proactive behavior. While it lacks advanced frameworks, it's a solid introduction for early-career professionals. The content is clear and applicable, though somewhat brief for deeper organizational dynamics. We rate it 7.6/10.

## Prerequisites

No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in business & management.

## Pros

- Provides actionable techniques for improving communication with managers

- Emphasizes emotional intelligence and self-awareness in professional settings

- Content is accessible and relevant for early-career professionals

- Flexible learning structure allows self-paced progress

## Cons

- Limited depth on cross-cultural or remote team dynamics

- Few real-world case studies or advanced scenarios

- Certificate requires payment, limiting full access for free learners

## Managing Up Course Review

Platform: Coursera

Instructor: Arizona State University

Updated May 6, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate

## What will you learn in Managing Up course

- Develop strategies to build trust and credibility with your superiors

- Learn how to give and receive feedback constructively in upward relationships

- Understand the psychology behind effective manager-employee dynamics

- Improve communication skills to align goals and expectations with leadership

- Apply techniques to proactively influence decisions and contribute more meaningfully

### Program Overview

### Module 1: Understanding the Manager-Employee Relationship

2 weeks

- Defining 'managing up' and its importance

- Identifying manager motivations and priorities

- Assessing your current relationship with leadership

### Module 2: Building Credibility and Trust

2 weeks

- Demonstrating reliability and accountability

- Communicating with clarity and confidence

- Delivering consistent value to your manager

### Module 3: Effective Communication and Feedback

2 weeks

- Providing upward feedback tactfully

- Active listening and empathy in professional settings

- Adapting communication style to leadership preferences

### Module 4: Proactive Influence and Problem Solving

2 weeks

- Anticipating needs and offering solutions

- Managing expectations and workload

- Positioning yourself as a strategic partner

### Get certificate

#### Job Outlook

- Skills in managing up are highly valued in leadership development programs

- Enhances promotion potential by demonstrating emotional intelligence and initiative

- Transferable across industries and roles, especially in corporate environments

## Editorial Take

Managing Up, offered by Arizona State University on Coursera, targets a subtle but critical skill set: navigating the upward relationship between employees and managers. While often overlooked in traditional leadership training, managing up is essential for career progression, workplace influence, and personal job satisfaction. This course fills a niche by focusing not on leading others, but on leading from below—how to communicate effectively, build trust, and position oneself as a valuable partner to leadership.

### Standout Strengths

- Practical Communication Tools: The course delivers immediately usable techniques for framing feedback, asking for support, and aligning with managerial priorities. These tools are grounded in organizational psychology and workplace realism. They help learners reframe interactions as collaborative rather than hierarchical.

- Focus on Emotional Intelligence: Self-awareness, empathy, and adaptability are woven throughout the curriculum. Learners are encouraged to assess their manager’s style and adjust communication accordingly. This builds rapport without compromising authenticity or professionalism in the workplace.

- Structured Skill Progression: Each module builds logically from understanding dynamics to influencing outcomes. The progression from awareness to action ensures learners don’t just understand concepts but apply them. This scaffolding supports real behavioral change over time.

- Relevance Across Industries: Whether in tech, healthcare, education, or finance, managing up is universally applicable. The course avoids industry-specific jargon, making it accessible to a broad audience. Its principles transfer easily across roles and organizational levels.

- Encourages Proactive Mindset: Instead of waiting for direction, learners are taught to anticipate needs and offer solutions. This shift from passive to proactive engagement enhances visibility and credibility. It’s a subtle but powerful career accelerator.

- Flexible Learning Format: Designed for working professionals, the course allows self-paced completion with clear weekly goals. Video lectures, reflection prompts, and practical exercises keep engagement high. The format suits busy schedules without sacrificing depth.

### Honest Limitations

- Limited Depth on Power Dynamics: While the course promotes healthy communication, it avoids deeper discussions around power imbalances, toxic leadership, or systemic barriers. Learners in challenging environments may need supplementary resources to navigate complex situations safely and ethically.

- Few Real-World Case Studies: The course relies heavily on theoretical models and general advice rather than detailed case studies. More diverse, real-world scenarios—especially from underrepresented groups—would enhance relatability and practical application across different contexts.

- Minimal Focus on Remote Work: With the rise of hybrid and remote teams, managing up has evolved. The course touches on communication but doesn’t deeply explore digital etiquette, asynchronous feedback, or visibility in virtual environments—critical gaps in today’s workplace.

- Certificate Requires Payment: While the course is free to audit, full access to graded assignments and certification requires a subscription. This paywall may limit accessibility for learners seeking formal recognition without financial commitment, reducing overall value for some.

### How to Get the Most Out of It

- Study cadence: Complete one module every two weeks to allow time for reflection and real-world application. Rushing through undermines the behavioral change the course promotes. Spacing improves retention and impact.

- Parallel project: Apply each concept directly to your current role. Track interactions with your manager, noting shifts in tone, response, and collaboration. Real-time practice reinforces learning more than theory alone.

- Note-taking: Use a journal to document insights, feedback attempts, and outcomes. Writing helps internalize emotional intelligence skills. Review notes weekly to identify patterns and progress.

- Community: Engage in discussion forums to share experiences and learn from peers. Different industries and cultures offer varied perspectives on managing up. Community input enriches understanding beyond the course material.

- Practice: Role-play difficult conversations with a trusted colleague or mentor. Rehearsing feedback or requests builds confidence. Practice reduces anxiety and improves delivery in real situations.

- Consistency: Apply techniques regularly, even in low-stakes interactions. Small, consistent actions build credibility over time. Managing up is less about grand gestures and more about sustained presence.

### Supplementary Resources

- Book: 'The First 90 Days' by Michael D. Watkins offers deeper strategies for influencing leadership and accelerating integration into new roles. It complements the course’s focus on early relationship-building.

- Tool: Use 360-degree feedback tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms to gather anonymous input on your communication style. This data helps refine your approach when managing up effectively.

- Follow-up: Consider taking 'Influencing People' or 'Leadership Communication' courses to expand on these skills. These build directly on the foundation laid in this course.

- Reference: Harvard Business Review articles on upward feedback and emotional intelligence provide updated, research-backed insights. They help bridge any gaps in the course’s more general advice.

### Common Pitfalls

- Pitfall: Mistaking managing up for manipulation or brown-nosing. The course clarifies this is about professionalism, not flattery. Misunderstanding this can lead to inauthentic behavior that damages trust.

- Pitfall: Expecting immediate results from feedback or initiative. Change takes time, especially in hierarchical structures. Patience and persistence are required to see meaningful shifts in manager-employee dynamics.

- Pitfall: Overextending oneself to prove value. Proactivity should not become overcommitment. Maintaining boundaries ensures sustainability and prevents burnout while still demonstrating initiative.

### Time & Money ROI

- Time: At 8 weeks with 2–3 hours per week, the time investment is reasonable for the return. Learners gain practical skills that can improve daily work life immediately, making the effort worthwhile.

- Cost-to-value: The course is free to audit, but certification requires payment. For those needing proof of completion, the cost may feel high given the course's introductory nature and limited depth.

- Certificate: The credential adds value to resumes, especially for early-career professionals. However, it lacks industry-wide recognition compared to specialized certifications, limiting its standalone impact.

- Alternative: Free resources like TED Talks on leadership or HBR podcasts cover similar themes. But this course offers structure and guided learning, which self-directed options often lack, justifying enrollment for motivated learners.

### Editorial Verdict

Managing Up is a solid, well-structured introduction to a frequently overlooked professional skill. It succeeds in demystifying the often awkward process of building strong relationships with superiors, offering practical tools for communication, feedback, and proactive engagement. While it doesn’t dive into advanced organizational theory or address every nuance of workplace politics, it delivers what it promises: a clear, accessible path to becoming a more effective, visible, and trusted team member. The course is particularly valuable for early-career professionals, recent graduates, or anyone transitioning into a new role where navigating leadership dynamics is crucial.

That said, learners should go in with realistic expectations. This isn’t a deep dive into leadership systems or a solution for toxic work environments. It’s a foundational course best paired with real-world practice and supplementary reading. The lack of advanced case studies and limited focus on remote work are notable gaps, but not dealbreakers. Overall, it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking to enhance their workplace influence without overextending their budget or schedule. For its clarity, relevance, and practical focus, we recommend it as a stepping stone in professional development—especially when taken with intentional follow-up actions.

## How Managing Up Course Compares

| Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration |

| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |

| Managing Up Course | Coursera | 7.6/10 | Beginner | 8 weeks |

| Make Passive Income Business: Reselling Digital Portrait | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Lead Management & Sales Stages: A Step-by-Step System | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Negotiation Mastery Win-Win Strategies, Anchoring Persuasion Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

## Who Should Take Managing Up Course?

This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in business & management. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by Arizona State University on Coursera, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a course certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers.

If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course.

### Career Outcomes

- Apply business & management skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities

- Qualify for entry-level positions in business & management and related fields

- Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers

- Add a course certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume

- Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field

## More Business & Management Courses on Coursera

Explore other highly rated courses in business & management available on Coursera to expand your learning path:

- OKR Certification: Leadership and Goal Setting Course 9.9/10

- Agile Healthy And Attractive Organizations Course 9.8/10

- Agile Accelerator Navigating Lean Startup Agile And Scrum Course 9.8/10

- Advanced Marketing Analytics Funnels And Dashboarding Course 9.8/10

- Brand Management: Aligning Business, Brand and Behaviour Course 9.8/10

- IBM Business Analyst Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10

- Xbox Product Manager Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10

- Microsoft Program Management Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10

- Adobe Marketing Specialist Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10

- Introduction to Business Specialization Course 9.8/10

## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms

Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated business & management courses from other platforms cover similar ground:

- Make Passive Income Business: Reselling Digital Portrait 10.0/10 Udemy

- Lead Management & Sales Stages: A Step-by-Step System 10.0/10 Udemy

- Negotiation Mastery Win-Win Strategies, Anchoring Persuasion Course 9.8/10 Udemy

- Succeed in the Age of AI: 12 Fast Wins for Leaders 9.8/10 Udemy

- Bulletproof Problem Solving Course 9.8/10 Udemy

- Excel 2010 Course 9.8/10 Udemy

- The Complete Shopify Dropshipping Course 9.7/10 Udemy

- Data Quality Masterclass – The Complete Course 9.7/10 Udemy

- UiPath 2025 – Level 1 RPA Developer Course 9.7/10 Udemy

- The Real Estate Financial Modeling Bootcamp Course 9.7/10 Udemy

## More Courses from Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings:

- TESOL Certificate, Part 1: Teach English Now! Specialization Course 9.9/10

- Teach English Now! Foundational Principles Course 9.7/10

- Teach English Now! Theories of Second Language Acquisition Course 9.7/10

- Teach English Now! Lesson Design and Assessment Course 9.7/10

- Arizona State University TESOL Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10

- TESOL Certificate, Part 2: Teach English Now! Specialization Course 9.7/10

- Business English: Management and Leadership Course 9.7/10

- Teach English Now! Capstone Project 1 Course 9.7/10

View all courses from Arizona State University →

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## User Reviews

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## FAQs

What are the prerequisites for Managing Up Course?

No prior experience is required. Managing Up Course is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Business & Management. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners.

Does Managing Up Course offer a certificate upon completion?

Yes, upon successful completion you receive a course certificate from Arizona State University. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Business & Management can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development.

How long does it take to complete Managing Up Course?

The course takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on Coursera, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably.

What are the main strengths and limitations of Managing Up Course?

Managing Up Course is rated 7.6/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: provides actionable techniques for improving communication with managers; emphasizes emotional intelligence and self-awareness in professional settings; content is accessible and relevant for early-career professionals. Some limitations to consider: limited depth on cross-cultural or remote team dynamics; few real-world case studies or advanced scenarios. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Business & Management.

How will Managing Up Course help my career?

Completing Managing Up Course equips you with practical Business & Management skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by Arizona State University, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market.

Where can I take Managing Up Course and how do I access it?

Managing Up Course is available on Coursera, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Coursera and enroll in the course to get started.

How does Managing Up Course compare to other Business & Management courses?

Managing Up Course is rated 7.6/10 on our platform, placing it as a solid choice among business & management courses. Its standout strengths — provides actionable techniques for improving communication with managers — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding.

What language is Managing Up Course taught in?

Managing Up Course is taught in English. Many online courses on Coursera also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction.

Is Managing Up Course kept up to date?

Online courses on Coursera are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. Arizona State University has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate.

Can I take Managing Up Course as part of a team or organization?

Yes, Coursera offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Managing Up Course. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build business & management capabilities across a group.

What will I be able to do after completing Managing Up Course?

After completing Managing Up Course, you will have practical skills in business & management that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your course certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers.

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