Ever worked for a boss who has ‘anger issues,’ shows favouritism, bullies and only sees negativity in all you do? If yes, then you can understand the frustration. Working and thriving in such an environment can be so hard that many may choose to quit. However, hard as the situation can be, there are ways of dealing with such a person especially if you love your job. This is how you can go about it; Have a chat with your boss or manager Justin Mwiza, a manager in a local Law firm, says sometimes such managers, supervisors or heads of departments might have no idea that their character demotivates others. Instead of deciding to quit, you can consider having a chat with them. She says, open up to your boss about how you would want to be helped to grow in your role. Kindly ask him or her to assist you with the right direction, feedback both good and bad, and support. You can also ask the manager how you can help them reach their achievable goals and be willing to take that path. There might be hope after having a professional discussion. Open up to the human resource manager “Sometimes you might do all it takes to make the situation work. But in situations where it doesn’t work, go to the human resource manager and complain about your manager. This isn’t the best idea, but a meeting can be organised and this person can notice their weakness and change their behaviours,” Mwiza says. However, she adds that if he or she isn’t willing to change or even decides to create a grudge with you, then it can be time to search for another job. Identify their triggers She carries on that if your boss has anger management problems, identify what triggers them. If they hate missing deadlines, reporting late to work, or having long lunch breaks, then how about you work on that? Some managers don’t want to keep repeating themselves, if they keep complaining about the same issues, then they are losing it, and working with a person that has lost their mind wouldn’t be the best idea, Mwiza adds. Engage with your support network She also explains that everyone needs a strong support network, especially while dealing with an emotionally challenging situation. Such situations can breed stress, so having your friends and people who support and encourage you can be a great deal. Find a coach, therapist, or other trained professional for some advice, it will help you not to come to conclusions before thinking twice. Don’t discuss your boss with co-workers Mwiza also notes that shun making your boss’ difficult character a subject with your colleagues, just for respect but it’s also mature to avoid negativity at the workplace. You don’t want to create hatred between your supervisor and other workers. Only talk about your boss with someone you think can be of help in giving an opinion or advice. Explore other opportunities within your organisation For Harvard Business Review, there might be ways to escape your toxic boss without having to leave your company. Look into other positions in the company that interest you, meet with colleagues and managers in other departments, think about where your skills might translate, and make a case for your transition. Do not bad mouth “Resist the urge to bad mouth your boss during potential job interviews or even after you land a new job. Hiring managers don’t know you and they don’t know your boss — all they will see is a complaining troublemaker. Remember, it’s okay to quit. Your personal and professional future may depend on it.” Experts say that there are several benefits that can come with addressing a difficult boss. A few of these benefits include; reduced work-related stress, reduced chance of illness, increased work satisfaction, improved relationships within the workplace, increased job productivity and increased potential to advance at work.
