How to Take Control of a Bullying-Boss Situation at Work
While a job isn't always exciting, doing what you love makes the work much easier. Jobs do have their ups and downs, however, and a bullying boss can ruin even the best job out there. No matter what the work or the pay is, no one likes a boss who bullies his employees. If you are in a situation at work where your boss is bullying or harassing you, it's important to take the proper steps to fix the problem. Not only will you feel better, but other workers may appreciate a change in the boss's behavior as well.
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Instructions
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1
Identify what specifically your boss is doing and why it is inappropriate. When you tell your boss about the problem, you'll want to identify exactly what it is she is doing, explain why you don't appreciate it and mention if it affects other employees. Come up with an example of how he can avoid that behavior. For example, if your boss is making inappropriate comments, give a specific example of these comments. Mention how the boss could use a constructive-criticism approach instead of an insulting one when talking with employees.
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2
Make an appointment to talk with your boss. Have the meeting in a place away from other employees so your boss doesn't feel threatened. If others are present, your boss may continue his insulting behavior as a way to preserve his pride or his image. If you feel threatened or harassed by your boss, have another employee go with you to your meeting as a witness.
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3
Remain calm and explain the problem you outlined in Step 1. If your boss interrupts you or laughs at your claims, wait for her to calm down and then continue. Your boss may or may not listen to you. A good boss should listen and work with you to find a solution to the problem. If she does not, however, simply thank her for her time and leave the office. You do not need to be aggressive or confrontational, but do not apologize or back down from your position.
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4
Check with your company about its harassment or bullying-boss policy. If the issue seems more like harassment, or feels dangerous, follow the company's harassment policy. You may wish to speak to your boss's boss, but remember that word can get back to your boss and you'll have to face him. For this reason, this approach is typically better for a serious situation instead of one where a boss is simply making rude comments.
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Contact the human-resources department in your business if there is one. This is along the same lines as speaking with your boss's boss, but a bit more private. Make an appointment and explain the problem and your attempts to correct it. Then ask for advice on how to deal with the situation and proceed from there.
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Consider the situation and how important your job is. If your boss is doing something illegal, file a complaint with the company. If the incidents occur after work or you feel threatened by your boss, consider contacting the police if you need help. Switching jobs is also an option but should not be taken lightly. This is a last resort when the problem is serious and you can find no other way to deal with it. This also may not be an option for many people due to lack of better work. If, however, you cannot deal with your boss's behavior, you may be happier in the long run by leaving.
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Tips & Warnings
Contact your state's Human Rights Commission for help with your situation; it can advise you on your situation without your company's knowing.
