Learning how to deal with a difficult boss can be a way for you to stop dreading your job. Realistically, it isn’t always easy enough to move to a different job. You also don’t want to create problems within the business. You don’t have to grit your teeth though and simply put up with a difficult boss.
First, you need to take a step back and fairly evaluate the situation. Is your boss truly difficult or are you not doing your end of things? If you are doing your work like you should then the problem is with the boss. Are they acting the same way to everyone or do you feel like you are personally being attacked?
Your own personality may clash with that of your boss. Adding more fuel to the fire isn’t going to help you gain any ground. Try to praise your boss for what he or she does right and chances are they will do the same with you. Keep your dignity and never lose your cool while on the job. If you do, it will make you look bad and your credibility may be going out the window.
If you feel personally attacked, you should ask your boss if you can have a meeting with him or her. Express your feelings over the problem and see what their take is on it. Approach this situation with an attitude that shows you want to find a solution rather than one which sounds like you are blaming your boss for everything.
If the problem is that your boss demands too much from the staff, perhaps you can let them know that realistically no one is able to successfully meet those demands. This can give your boss something to think about and hopefully some new ideas can develop to handle the problem.
If you feel that the situation has spiraled out of control though and your boss won’t talk then you need to protect yourself. Document any incidents that occur including what took place, when it happened, where it happened, the time, and who was in attendance. Document as many details as you can.
Always be professional in nature about how you handle such problems. For example flying off the handle or responding with threats isn’t going to help you with your case. If you feel that a boss is out of control, chances are you aren’t the only one that feels that way. With your documentation in hand, go to their superior to ask that some type of intervention be conducted.
You have to be willing to stand up for yourself in the work environment when it comes to a difficult boss. Too many people are intimidated so they don’t say anything. However, this is going to result in you becoming resentful. It is going to prevent you from being able to enjoy your job. In fact, each day you will dread it more and more. Taking a firm stand now is a great way for you
While you don’t want to create negativity in the workplace, chances are if your boss is extremely difficult it already exists. As a result you should consider getting other employees onboard with you. If you contact your boss or their superior as a group then you won’t feel so targeted for retaliation or be as fearful of losing your job as you would be taking a stand on your own.
When things are difficult at work, it often carries over to the home situation as well. Too much stress can adversely affect your overall health. This is why you need to be able to leave work behind at the end of the day. Unless your job is one where you are on call or there are other circumstances your boss shouldn’t be contacting you after hours. Make sure you enforce those guidelines though or you will continue to be taken advantage of.
