10 Ways to Deal With a Difficult Boss

10 Ways to Deal With a Difficult Boss pexels.com 1. Observe your boss The Muse suggests that the first step you take should be to observe your boss. Try to figure out if there is a reason behind his/her behavior or if he/she is behaving irrationally. Attempt to conclude if his/her bad actions are his/her doing or merely out of his/her control. Looking at the situation as a whole is important in helping you understand your boss more. Examine if your boss treats everyone at work negatively or if you feel you are being isolated. If you know you have done something to damage that relationship, be sure to take steps to repair it soon rather than avoiding it. 2. Try to understand where your boss is coming from It is fairly easy to blame your boss for all the stress and pressure you may be experiencing, but try to understand where they are coming from. They themselves may be facing the same kind of pressure you are. They also may have to deal with a tough boss as well. As hard as it is,  Forbes recommends that you try to be more empathetic and sympathetic to your boss. 3. Dont slack off   The Muse concludes that you shouldnt let your boss’s bad behavior deter you from doing the best you can at your job. Keep working hard and doing all you can to succeed. Although you may feel discouraged at times, do not give your boss a reason to build a case against you. 4. Think through each interaction When you do not care for an individual it is easy for emotions to flare up and cause you to say something you shouldn’t. Since this individual is one who has power over you, it is important to keep those emotions and thoughts in check to prevent anything you may regret. Forbes concludes that you want to be honest with your boss, but also need to be sure you are careful about what you say and do. Simply be aware of   yourself and the way you interact with your boss because that can easily escalate the current situation. 5. Write everything down When dealing with a tough boss, the Muse suggests you document each interaction to prevent problems in the future. Writing down his/her requests will prevent later confusion or any contradictions. This can be a great way to keep track of what is being asked of you and to ensure you are always prepared. 6. Approach the situation positively Don’t let your boss’s attitude rub off on you. Psychology Today advises you to handle each situation positively and with confidence. This is a great way to show your boss that his/her negative demeanor does not affect you. 7. Figure out your bosss triggers The Muse suggests identifying what makes your boss angry and avoid doing that. If he/she hates tardiness, be sure to always arrive to work early. This will eliminate any unwanted tensions between you and your boss and deter problems from arising. 8. Do not be afraid to speak up As a subordinate you have to be respectful to your boss, but also make sure you are not being taken advantage of. There are drawbacks to being too timid as well. If the situation is so bad you are considering leaving, Forbes advises you talk to your boss about how you are feeling. If you approach the situation with respect and the right level of honesty there is a chance for change. It is also possible that the boss is oblivious of his/her actions, and in that case, you talking to him/her makes them more aware. 9. Try to maintain the relationship Even though you may not get along with your boss, you never know if he/she will be needed as a reference down the road. Forbes suggests you avoid destroying connections completely because often jobs will ask about your previous employments and ask to speak with your manager or boss. Above all try to keep the relationship as civil as you can. 10. Follow the correct procedures If you feel the need to take more serious action, do so the correct way. Avoid anything that can get you into trouble, such as name-calling or spreading rumors. Psychology Today advises that you take your complaints to Human Resources or another superior if you feel the need.