How To Deal With A Difficult Boss: 4 Strategies For Survival And Success
Aug 22, 2024
If you’ve ever had the misfortune of working under a bad boss, I genuinely empathize with you. It’s an incredibly tough position to be in. The constant anxiety, stress, and the pit in your stomach that doesn’t just hit on Sunday nights but lingers throughout the entire weekend can be overwhelming. Dealing with someone difficult or incompetent in their role can make going to work a dreadful experience. So, what should you do if you find yourself stuck with a bad boss? Let’s dive into it.
Should You Just Quit?
We’ve all heard the saying, "People don’t leave jobs, they leave bosses." And while there’s a lot of truth to that, the answer isn’t always as simple as packing up and walking out the door. Quitting might be the right choice eventually, but it’s not always the immediate solution—especially when you feel trapped by circumstances that don’t allow for a quick exit.
Before deciding to leave, there’s something else you can try: leading up. It’s a concept that involves managing your relationship with your boss in a way that improves the work environment for you and potentially everyone around you. Here’s how to start.
1. Release Your Expectations
One of the hardest things to do when working under a bad boss is to release the expectation that they will lead you well. It’s easy to feel like you deserve better leadership, and while that might be true, holding onto that expectation can lead to resentment and frustration. Instead, think of your leadership as a sphere of influence—not just a top-down dynamic but one that radiates in all directions. This mindset shift allows you to see your role as not just leading your direct reports but positively impacting everyone around you, including your boss.
2. Think of Your Boss as a Difficult Client
If you’ve ever had to deal with a challenging client, you know the drill: you have to figure out what they want and how to make it work, even if it’s not your preferred way of doing things. Try applying this mentality to your boss. Instead of seeing them as your leader, think of them as a difficult client whose needs you have to meet to achieve your own success. This perspective can help you navigate the relationship more effectively, focusing on what you need to do to thrive despite the challenges they present.
3. Support Their Successes, Work Despite Their Failures
It might seem counterintuitive, but supporting your boss’s successes can be beneficial for you. Even if they’re not great at their job, finding ways to help them succeed can create a better working environment for everyone. Additionally, it’s crucial to learn how to work in spite of their failures. For example, if your boss is disorganized, consider stepping in to offer solutions or take on some of the organizational tasks. This not only helps the team but also showcases your strengths and character.
4. Care About Your Personal Brand
When under the leadership of a bad boss, it’s tempting to slack off or complain. However, doing so can damage your personal brand. Your actions and attitude in the workplace speak volumes about you, not just your boss. Instead of succumbing to negativity, focus on maintaining a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. Remember, you are responsible for your own success, and how you handle adversity will be remembered by others long after you’ve moved on.
5. Speak Up and Give an Opportunity for a Response
It’s important to communicate your concerns and feelings to your boss respectfully and thoughtfully. Sometimes, bosses are unaware of how their actions affect others, and your feedback could be the catalyst for positive change. Even if nothing changes, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you did your part to address the issues.
When All Else Fails
If you’ve tried everything and the situation hasn’t improved, it might be time to consider other options, including looking for a new job. However, by leading up and managing your relationship with your boss effectively, you may find that you can make the best of a challenging situation, improve your work environment, and grow as a leader in the process.
Need More Help?
If you’re dealing with conflict at work, whether with a boss or a colleague, I have a free Conflict Resolution Guide that can help you navigate these tricky situations with confidence. Download it here and take the first steps toward a more harmonious workplace.
