Bad Boss Behavior – BusinessWeek

By Tony Deblauwe

With uncertain times, a high level of unemployment, plus concerns about business solvency, those in the employed ranks often face difficult work environments. The problems can originate from different areas but the one scenario that is particularly difficult to confront is an ineffective boss.

Todays BusinessWeek article by Jeff Schmitt offers a list of bad boss qualities the rank and file observes such as:

1. Don’t Know Your Job
2. Don’t Listen
3. Closed-Minded
4. Poor Preparation
5. Not Building Skills
6. Overzealous
7. Don’t Maintain Discipline
8. Never Heard of Tact
9. Lack Influence
10. Blindside Us
And more…

Certainly any one of these characteristics can drive the best performer to feel stressed and even question professional competencies. What’s worse is so many people lack the communication skills necessary to deal with a boss that doesn’t set the best examples of leadership and teamwork. Regardless of how your boss acts or manages the work environment, you have to make the situation work. When confronted with a difficult and demanding boss remember to set the right expectations, clarify roles, and execute to mutually beneficial outcomes.

 

For more tips about how to improve the relationship with your boss, check out my book and workbook, Tangling with Tyrants, on Amazon