How to Handle a Bad Boss
You've tried and tried, but you just can't stand your boss. Although you stay on point, work productively and do everything that's asked of you, your supervisor remains unbearable. Bad bosses range from mildly annoying to flat-out cruel, and the worst ones are a little bit of both. But one bad boss is no reason to give up your job, especially if you like it.
- Difficulty:
- Challenging
Instructions
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1
Identify your boss' key bad behavior. If it's sexism, racism or other discrimination, it's illegal. Report specific incidents to human resources or a union representative.
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2
Analyze your boss' style. If your boss insists on knowing everything, that's micromanagement. If your boss yells and pushes people around, that's intimidation. And if your boss doesn't seem to know what's going on, that's either laziness or incompetence.
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3
Respond in kind. According to Forbes magazine, micromanagers respond well to communication that is frequent and detailed. If your boss is hostile or overaggressive, explain that you don't work well in such conditions, and ask what can be done to change. And if a manager simply is incompetent or lazy, use the opportunity as a chance to advance. Establish yourself as a hard worker and leader.
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Keep a detailed log of troubling behavior. If your boss fails to respond to your coping techniques, start taking notes to prepare a formal complaint.
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Build your case file. Keep relevant emails, memos or other written material that demonstrate your boss' flaws.
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Take your findings to human resources or a union representative.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep your journal of bad boss behavior in your pocket; use a discreet notebook, and keep it to yourself until you're ready to present it in your complaint.
