How To Deal With a Bad Boss

Let me tell you this....we can all relate to this one!

So, you've got that dream job at a "good company" with great benefits, manageable work load that stimulates your brain and warm colleagues you have 'Mimosa Fridays' with.

But...YOUR BOSS! The only thing that doesn’t fit into this perfect picuture…some bosses make you feel so uncomfortable that you want to leave your job, want to not come to work or you take every minute of your lunch time, sick and vacation leave.

And oh the jubilation when your “horrible boss” goes on vacation, you and your colleagues have a mini celebratory dance to thank the heavens for temporarily ridding you of that stress. (Whooosa!- That testimony was long *shakes tambourine*)

If you belong to that choir, I have some tips to help you keep your salvation:

#1: Fake it til you make it!

Never speak bad about your boss to colleagues or interviews, pretend as though your boss is the best thing that has happened in your life. As far as you are concerned they are a Demi-God. Negative words or statements can quickly reach your boss (the grapevine is real) then your boss will be even more vindictive towards you.

#2: SLAY!

Always be on top of your work, projects or assignments given by your boss. Accept the feedback given and do things exactly how they want them to be done. If you are ahead of the game, there will be less for your boss to moan about.

#3: Be Professional

Keep it professional at all times. Your boss doesn’t have to be your buddy or prayer partner. Your conversations can be strictly work related for those overly intrusive bosses that question your weekend shenanigans share vague responses such as “nothing much”, “same old”.

Trust me I’ve worked in several organisations and no one even knows where I live.

Being overly friendly and personal with your boss can lead to an uncomfortable situation if there is a fall out. You are taken and perceived better when you keep it professional.

#4: Stay chill

We’ve all gotten those spit fire emails that when you open them you can hear your boss screaming through the words. DO NOT respond in a harsh tone this can lead to a one sided back and forth email exchange that will escalate the situation. Your boss can even perceive your response as insubordination (which could lead to disciplinary action).

Stay calm and respond in the most professional way possible (this will shock them and show them you are not willing to stoop to their standards.

#5: Get Jesus on the Main Line!

There are those situations when your boss tries to publicly embarrass you in front of your peers causing you to feel uncomfortable and angry. Brothers and sisters in the struggle - Smile through the frustration and face any attack with professionalism. Relax your face, smile and bind the devil in Jesus name (Caught the spirit there).

One trick that has worked for me is going to the bathroom after the occurrence and ranting to my BF, BFF’s or to Jesus who’s availability is better than theirs (sorry Keisha, Drique, and Marcus)

A quick prayer relieves me of the burden …

Find your own destressing method and use it!

#6: Call in the Big Guys!

If all of my tips fail Jesus and the trade union will not! Call up your union representative and discuss the unfair treatment with them whether it be favoritism in the department, rude comments or harassment.

Share your experiences with me below…I can’t wait to hear and invite a friend on over to join the chat!