Keeping people updated keeps them off your back.

Eliminate guesswork for your manager.

Don’t assume that, if your manager hasn’t asked for an update, everything is fine. Doing this puts you at risk of your manager guessing about your progress. An update isn’t something to hold on to until someone asks for it. It’s giving someone current information when you have it.

Own your workflow. Instead of waiting for a formal check-in, get into the habit of sending brief, bulleted updates on your key projects. A simple message covering what’s finished, what’s in progress, and where you might need direction helps eliminate guesswork for your manager. This shows your professional work ethic and that you’re in full command of your responsibilities.

Being proactive also means having the communication skills to flag roadblocks before they become crises. If you see a deadline getting tight or a technical issue brewing, don’t wait until the last minute to speak up. When you report a challenge, try to include a proposed workaround—even if it’s just a rough idea. This shows you won’t let things fall through the cracks.

Put these approaches into practice.

Let’s look at practical ways to share progress updates, control your workflow, and flag potential problems before they become big issues.