Look Before You Leap: Dealing with a Difficult Boss |
|
Email | Add Comment | Read Comments
|
|
|
|
 |
Posted By: Julie Shenkman In: Clerical & Administrative
How can you deal with a difficult boss? What are your options? Check out AdministrativeJobs.com
|
Stress comes in all shapes and sizes. It manifests itself in a variety of ways, one way possibly being your boss. Everyone has at least one job in their lives that forces them to deal with a difficult boss. Behavioral characteristics vary: some yell, some micromanage, some constantly complain. All are near impossible to please. But the secret to dealing with stress and difficult bosses is remaining calm.
Those unfortunate enough to work for such difficult individuals are often at a loss as to how best handle it. In most cases, the fight or flight instinct is the first to take hold. But given today's economic climate, where a good administrative assistant position can be both lucrative and fulfilling, it's crucial to take some factors into consideration before making snap decisions.
Never put yourself in a position of angry confrontation. The odds are, if your boss is that big of a jerk, doing so will only fan the flames--or get you fired. If you find that your boss's behavior is bordering on abusive, it may be necessary to confront the issue--but always remember that cooler heads prevail. Maintaining an even tone and using constructive language can mean the difference between full-blown fight and heartfelt discourse.
Get into your boss's head. It never hurts to try to understand the psychology of the difficult boss. Taking a closer look at their motivations, and understanding the workplace pressures they themselves may be under, just might give you the insight needed to turn an insufferable situation into a bearable one.
The best advice is to not take things personally. This is much easier said than done. But taking a non-emotional approach to how you react is very challenging. Reacting constructively can even serve to neutralize the attack, and could serve as a great leaping-off point to engage your boss in constructive conversation. Asking for his or her advice on how you could better execute your administrative duties might actually earn you points.
In the end there may be some conflicts that can't be resolved. In these situations it's advisable to constantly keep your resume updated, and your options open. Careful consideration should be given before doing so, for the simple fact that (as the old adage says) "the devil you know is better than the devil you don't." Do some soul searching. If the problem lies with your inability to take criticism, you may be leaping out of the frying pan into the proverbial fire.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
There have been no comments made on this article. Be the first to share your thoughts by using the form above.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Email | Add Comment | Read Comments
|
|
|
