How to Deal With an Incompetent Supervisor

An incompetent supevisor can make you feel like your hands are tied.

A boss who does not understand what his subordinates need to succeed and undermines their creativity, teamwork and effectiveness through incompetence can be just as difficult to work with as a mean-spirited or abusive boss. While the incompetent boss may be the nicest person to work for, his lack of understanding and direction will destroy morale and initiative. Learning to deal with this type of boss will make your corporate life much easier to handle.

Instructions

1. Identify the problem. Most bosses are not bad at everything. Identify and document this supervisor's weaknesses and areas of incompetence.

2. Talk to your manager about issues that might be resolved. Sit down and discuss the problems with your supervisor, and be prepared to back up your claims with documentation or supporting evidence of some kind. Be careful to avoid taking an argumentative or accusatory tone.

3. Talk to human resources department, if you have one, about the problem. Many companies have methods to report issues anonymously, or than enable workers to simply discuss their concerns and assess their options. Take advantage of these channels if they exist at your company.

4. Document your achievements, and any roadblocks that prevented you from meeting other goals or requirements. If the supervisor's incompetence begins to reflect badly on you, this documentation may prevent your reputation from being damaged.

5. Look for other positions outside the department, and even outside the company if necessary. Understand that you are not required to remain in that position and the supervisor's shortcomings do not need to prevent you from protecting your own career.

References

• Career Know How; Dealing with Incompetent Leaders; Carole Nicolaides