The autonomy that often comes with having a hands-off manager in a remote work environment can feel empowering. But it also makes it harder to stay aligned and ensure your work is visible. Here’s how to establish a better working relationship with your hands-off boss.

Understand work styles. Clarify your and your manager’s individual preferences. Do you prefer more structure and guidance, or to work more independently? Do you prefer written feedback or face-to-face discussions? Align your work styles early to avoid miscommunication. Suggest regular updates through shared tools like Trello or Asana to keep your boss informed of your progress.

Schedule one-on-one meetings. If your boss doesn’t initiate regular check-ins, take the lead. A 15-to-30-minute weekly or biweekly meeting brings consistency to your communication. Come prepared with an agenda to highlight wins, discuss challenges, and align on priorities. These meetings keep your work visible and your performance top of mind.

Build connections beyond your manager. Cultivate relationships with your boss’s peers to gain broader organizational visibility. Be transparent with your manager about your intentions and use these connections to understand the company’s bigger picture. Participate actively in team channels or discussions to strengthen your reputation.
This tip is adapted from “How to Work for a Hands-Off Manager When You’re Fully Remote,” by Irina Cozma.
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