DEALING WITH DIFFICULT BOSSES

By Olutobi Oduneye

Everyone desires to have a fantastic boss who sets a good tone at the workplace and makes the working conditions splendid, however, this is not always the case. “An ideal boss would be one who helps us see value in ourselves and equally values you, helps you make significant progress and yadda yadda yadda!” Reality dawns and there you are – stuck with a tough superior who’s a poor listener, one who hardly appreciates your work and you probably have a couple of months to work under them. Urgh! That could be pretty frustrating, you know? Who wants a difficult boss? Absolutely no one! They do not select the appropriate management style for each workplace situation and that’s a surefire way to demotivate employees. Worse still, they could be micromanagers, flat-out workplace bullies who show favouritism, have anger issues or probably just incompetent. Sometimes, you can’t just deal and opting out may seem to be the best option. Chill! If you are at this point, this piece is just for you!

To help out, here are some advice gathered from around the web to help you deal with that difficult boss of yours. You could try out these few tips to find a common ground with your boss or at least stay sane until you find a new gig:

• Understand your boss’ working style: Many YPs often allege dissatisfaction at work to difficult bosses and constantly hope for a change in management styles. You do not necessarily have to be on the defensive. Understanding why your boss does or cares about certain things can give you insight into his or her management style. The better you understand your boss’ preferences, the lesser the friction that could ensue.
• Learn to read moods and reactions: Understanding moods and reactions is key to effective communication between your boss and you. For instance, introducing new ideas when they are preoccupied with more pressing issues might indicate bad timing! So, learn to read their moods and reactions. You could never go wrong!

• Learn from your boss: Ask questions and listen more than you speak. Generally, bosses appreciate employees who are enthusiastic learners and who put their learnings to good use at the workplace. In addition, occasionally ask for feedback. Thus, you allow the boss to play the role of coach and mentor. You can try to stay one step ahead by anticipating your boss’ requests and getting things done before they come to you. This would create a good impression that you have your responsibilities on track—and that they don’t need to watch your every move.
• Your boss can’t read your mind: Often your accomplishments may not be noticed by your boss, because he focuses on other things. Enable him to offer you some recognition for your excellent performance. Let him know what you have accomplished, and create space in your conversation for him to show appreciation.
• Know your company’s goals: Bearing the company’s goals and values in mind, your efforts should be directed accordingly. Try letting your boss see that you have this in mind as this will ensure time and resources are not wasted.
• Don’t hold grudges: Disagreement is fine; a broken relationship is not. At work, disagreements would ensue and you could experience emotional reactions. However, don’t hold grudges. Don’t make threats about leaving. Get over it. Also, you do not want to even the score by reducing your work efficiency. Stay on good terms always!

From the foregoing, a good mix of proactivity and reactivity would give you an edge in handling that tough boss of yours. Share your thoughts! What other brilliant tips do you think we left out?

References

10 Brilliant Tips for Dealing With a Difficult Boss by the Muse Editor

Tips to Help You Get Along With Your Boss | The Balance Careers