How Do You Deal with Problem Bosses?
In America, most people work for a company and hold a job. With their paychecks, they pay for food, clothing, shelter, transportation, and other necessities. Most workers answer to bosses. Some bosses cause workplace problems or wreak havoc on the job site. In trying to deal with a problem boss, remember this: Tennessee is an employment at will state. That means that generally speaking, you can be hired or fired for any reason or no reason at all unless you are a victim of unlawful discrimination or you have a written employment contract that guarantees you certain rights. Few employees have written employment contracts. Thus, in reality, the law gives problem bosses the upper hand.
Problem bosses add to the stress at work. Nevertheless, never allow your boss’s behavior to influence your behavior or use his or her attitude or actions as an excuse to put less than 100 percent effort in your work. Stay focused on your job.
Unless a problem boss’s actions or words are dangerous or intolerable, think carefully before taking action. Take time to think carefully about how to approach him or her, to think carefully about what to say, and to rehearse your words before talking to him or her. Stay calm and respectful. State the problem, give the facts, and seek a workable and practical solution. Do not attack him or her personally. Allow time for your boss to respond.
Before approaching your boss, familiarize yourself with what he or she has in mind; what he or she worries about; what he or she prioritizes; and what he or she considers success and failure. Match your style to your boss’s style, likes, and dislikes. Doing so will enable you to do your job better and allow for a better two-way communication and understanding between you and your boss. Furthermore, assist your boss in overcoming his or her weaknesses and in achieving success.
The above tips may not work in or apply to your situation. Your situation even might warrant legal action.
If you take legal action against your boss or he or she takes legal action against you, get a lawyer. For more information, contact Nashville Attorney Perry A. Craft.
Perry A. Craft has dedicated his life to helping people in need. He has tried, settled, or resolved numerous civil and criminal cases in State and Federal courts, and has represented teachers and administrators before school boards, administrative judges, and the state Board of Education. Learn more about Attorney Craft.