What Do You Do When a Boss Makes You Look Bad to His Superiors?
Making you look bad to superiors is quite often a tactic a boss might use to make himself look better or to create a scapegoat solution to get out of trouble. One thing a boss never takes into account is the consequences of this type of action and how it can change the relationship between him and his employees. In addition, If supervisors see a subordinate act like this every time something goes wrong, it will only make them question his leadership abilities.
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Wait
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Wait. If your boss is close to retirement, getting a promotion, moving to a new location or being terminated, then waiting for that event or transition to take place is a good option for you to follow.
Hold Your Tongue
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Keep it to yourself. Having any anger or frustration about your boss bottled up inside is really not healthy; however, complaining about the way your boss treats you at work, will not be healthy to your position and may get back to him. There may be other employees complaining as well about the same situation, but resist the temptation to join in on the conversation. If you boss or supervisor finds out that you were complaining about his leadership, they may take appropriate action against you or even worse retaliate against you for complaining. Instead, vent at home and utilize your family's ear to feel better about the situation.
Work Harder
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Work harder to show your efforts toward helping the company as a whole. If you work hard and continue to do a good job, then your boss's colleagues and supervisors will notice, making any blaming of you for any of problems less optional. There may be a better opportunity that arises where you can move up to a better position under another boss.
Go to Your Boss's Boss
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Consider speaking to his superior if you feel your boss is making serious mistakes and continues to blame others. If you follow this route, then prepare your case with specific examples or proof of the mistakes your boss is making. If your boss's superior also acts in the same manner, then this could backfire and lead to other miserable situations that may cause you to want to leave work or quit.
Leave or Quit
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This decision can be difficult, especially if you rely on your job for benefits or other means to keep your lifestyle complete. However, you must take into consideration the pressure and the environment this situation or treatment is creating at home and in your life. Weigh your alternatives carefully and if you decide to leave or quit your position, then do it correctly. Plan ahead and start looking for another job--consulting with friends and family to get your name out on the network. The goal will be to have something lined up prior to informing your boss that you will be leaving. Try to leave your position on good terms and don't burn any bridges as you may need a good reference from your former boss.
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