How to Effectively Talk to Difficult Boss
Whether your difficult boss is angry, incompetent, nosy, micro-managing or harassing, he is creating problems for you and everyone else in the workplace. One problematic individual can create a tense work atmosphere at best, and a hostile environment at worst. But many employees are afraid to speak up for fear of retaliation or termination.
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Instructions
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Keep a list of specific incidents that have happened. If you decide to speak with your boss or to the Human Resources department, you will probably be asked for proof of any allegations you are making. Write down the time, date, people involved and conversation, including any specific quotes, to verify any claims.
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Ask yourself why your boss may be acting this way. Are you aware of problems at home? While this is not a justifiable reason to give employees a hard time at work, your boss may have a hard time separating home life from the job. Do you know for a fact that drugs or alcohol are involved? It is never a bad thing to step into someone's shoes momentarily to understand her actions, even if they are wrong.
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Talk to other co-workers. Make sure the problem is with everyone, and not just a personality issue with the two of you. If it has been noticed by the team, sit down and come up with an action plan to approach the boss and present your concerns in a meeting. There is definitely strength in numbers, and it's not likely he'll fire all of you.
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Schedule a meeting with your boss to see if you can discuss the issues that concern you. You may want to take more than one person in with you for this, as well, such as another manager, to mediate if you are concerned your boss will not listen. Be prepared for the meeting. Come with an attitude of resolving the situation, not pointing fingers or assigning blame, which will put your boss on the defensive immediately.
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Remain polite, calm and respectful regardless of what your boss says. Not only will this show your professionalism, but will not give him any ammunition if he attempts to get you fired.
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Approach human resources or your supervisor's boss if you're at an impasse. They should be able to provide mediation services, as well as work with the individual directly if this is an ongoing problem. It's a safe bet that if the problem warrants additional intervention, it is not the first time it has happened.
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Tips & Warnings
When meeting with your boss, try to be friendly and positive; make sure to point out what he does right, rather than just what he does wrong.
Always work to keep communication lines open on both sides; don't just assume the boss should listen to your side of the problem.
Never threaten your boss; this could get you fired, arrested or sued, depending on what is said and how it is taken.
