Managing up isn’t about sucking up—it’s about taking control of your career. This week, executive coach and author Melody Wilding joins us to break down the ten essential workplace conversations that help you set boundaries, advocate for yourself, and navigate office dynamics with confidence. From understanding communication styles to negotiating your worth, Melody shares practical scripts and psychological insights that can help you work smarter—not just harder.

©2025 Behavioral Grooves

Topics

[00:00] Introduction to Melody Wilding

[01:15] Redefining Managing Up: What It Really Means

[02:52] The 10 Conversations That Matter Most at Work

[04:47] How You Teach People How to Treat You

[10:32] Communication Styles: The Key to Navigating Workplace Dynamics

[22:25] The Money Conversation: How to Ask for a Raise the Right Way

[28:15] How to Push Back Diplomatically on Low-Value Tasks

[33:50] The Role of Visibility and Navigating Office Politics

[41:58] The "Me Manual": Understanding & Asserting Your Own Style

[50:16] Finding Your Groove: Melody's Career Journey

[57:35] Grooving Session: Managing Up

©2025 Behavioral Grooves

Links

Melody Wilding's Website

Managing Up (Book)

Join the Behavioral Grooves community

Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube

Musical Links

Arcade Fire - Reflektor

Death Cab For Cutie - Soul Meets Body

The 10 Conversations You Need to Master at Work | Melody Wilding

Behavioral Grooves Podcast

The 10 Conversations You Need to Master at Work | Melody Wilding