Workplace Challenges
DealingHere are Dr. Rick Kirschner's five tips on dealing with a bad boss: |
|
|
1. Be assertive, not passive or aggressive. "Pushy people have more respect for people who stand up for themselves than for people who attack or get bowled over. If the issue is criticism, ask for details."
2. Be responsible for your own emotions, rather than allowing them to determine how you feel.
3. If you find their demands are questionable, "tell them you want their directives in writing, so that responsibility for executing those directives rests with your boss rather than you."
4. Consult with their boss. Keep them informed of what's going on, and ask for their help in resolving problems. In fact, tell your boss you intend to do this before you do it, and invite them to come with you and explain themselves, since you can only represent your view of the problem accurately.
5. Documentation. Documents speak louder than words if you have to take action to protect yourself.
A good boss is ...
According to psychologist Jay Carter, "good bosses have the ability to connect with people, acknowledge people and admire people."
This is called charisma -- "simply touching them, shaking hands, smiling, looking into their eyes directly." Carter says good bosses also show a genuine interest in people, realize their feelings and understand their thoughts. "Admiring people means looking for and verbalizing the good qualities in them. Good bosses respect others."
According to Dr. Rick Kirschner, a successful leader has "a good overview of organizational vision and values, knowledge of people's strengths and weaknesses and a strategic approach to getting things done."
A good boss is someone who finds reward in seeing others succeed, adds counsellor Heidi Cowie. "They do everything they can to promote, educate, support, and guide an employee to be their very best."
Do you have you a bad boss?