Working With Problem Bosses

When I do consulting work for a company one of the first places I start is with the employees. I can find a great deal about a company by talking with its employees. Often I find many employees who complain about their bosses.

They feel that they don't get the support, or their bosses demand too much of them. They often feel that they should be promoted but their bosses are holding them back, and not letting them get ahead for one reason or another. I am often asked the question; "How do I get promoted with a problem boss?"

People are promoted because they have done well in their jobs. They get to be bosses. Although they have been great at their original jobs, they may be less effective as the boss.

All bosses are problem bosses in one way or another. Your fearless leader may have many great qualities, but he or she may also have faults that are hard to live with. Here's how you can deal with some of the more difficult types of bosses.

1. A bully. If your boss shouts and browbeats, wait until things calm down before trying to be reasonable. Keep your composure and repeat a calming phrase to yourself such as, "Ignore the anger. It isn't yours."

2. A workaholic. You can find this boss at the office almost any time of the day or night, and he or she will invade your personal life with off-hour telephone calls and work demands. Get this boss to set priorities and deadlines. Make assurances that they can be met. Also indicate that your personal responsibilities are also important.

3. A perfectionist. A nit-picking boss needs something to worry about. If he or she demands that you redo a task, mention your other assignments, and ask for priorities. The boss may accept the work when realizing what other tasks could be put on hold. You can't expect encouragement from this person; you must get it from someone else.

4. Aloof. If have a boss that doesn't keep you informed, determine the best course of action. Tell your boss about it. Say this is what you'll do unless you hear otherwise.

Chances are, no matter how difficult your boss is, you are contributing to the conflict. Talk to people who know you both and get some honest advice. If you discover how you are contributing to the problem and change that, you have come a long way toward making a better boss for yourself.