Of course in the short term, it is always easier to say nothing and to either ‘suffer quietly’ or complain loudly to anyone in earshot. But at what lost opportunity cost? Don’t prejudge and assume they aren’t able to take feedback, or don’t care how you feel about working for them. When you approach them with respect and with a genuine desire to make things better, you can open the door to whole new levels of trust, collaboration and outcomes. A door that will remain permanently closed otherwise.
6. Stand tall in your worth; never cower to intimidation
People who bully get their power from those who respond by cowering and showing fear. If your boss is a yeller, a criticizer, or a judge – stand firm. If you’re doing the best job you can do, keep your head held high and don’t give him the satisfaction of pushing you about. Rather ask questions, seek to understand, and work to defuse a difficult situation instead of cowering or responding in anger. It takes practice, but over time you will get better at it and he will look elsewhere for his power kick.
If you feel compelled to call your boss on his behavior, go ahead but do so with a cool head and prepare in advance for the ensuing fallout. It could get ugly so think things through beforehand. What are your options? Who are your allies? Have you documented his behavior? Can you deal with the possibility of the worst outcome? Sure, it’s important to stand strong, but be smart about it. As I wrote in Stop Playing Safe, “Sometimes you have to go out on a limb and do something where the risks are high. But before you climb out, be sure you’ve managed the risks as best you can and set up a safety net should you fall.”
10 Tips For Managing A Moody Boss
Margie Warrell is the best-selling author of Stop Playing Safe and Find Your Courage, keynote speaker & master coach. Connect on Twitter & Facebook.