The jellyfish is one of the most flexible aquatic animals. However, its soft body and gelatinous tentacles are dangerous. Its umbrella shape allows it to capture prey or defend itself with toxic bites. There are metaphorical jellyfish in the workplace. Your indecision can be painful. But, with a little forethought, you can learn to deal with bad bosses, and most of us have encountered them at least once. In fact, the Center for Creative Leaders found that 75% of all employees have had at least one such boss at some point in their career.
THE BOSS OF THE JELLYFISH
While it’s easy to “go with the flow,” too much acquiescence can have a negative impact on your career. Time is wasted, productivity suffers, and morale drops with bosses who can’t make up their minds. Here are some tips for solidifying decisions before hesitation turns toxic for everyone involved.
–Take charge. Say something like, “I can do it this way, which you seem to be inclined to, or do it another way, which will get the job done faster. Which way do you prefer?”
–Request information. As you explore the options, the boss will sometimes talk himself into making a decision.
–Find your boss’s preferred style of communication. Double it.
–Use an intermediary.
–Trust your boss by providing facts and figures that will increase the likelihood that you will make the right decision.
THE PERFECTIONIST BOSS
Perfection is an admirable goal. But, sometimes it can be the enemy of realization. I once knew an administrative assistant who, while her boss was out of the office, organized her calls three ways: alphabetically, by hour, and by priority.
It is important to note Peter Drucker’s distinction between efficiency and effectiveness. The former may be doing the right thing, but the latter involves doing the right things well. In other words, we need to focus on the critical aspects of the job and leave the less important things by the wayside.
If your boss is prone to perfectionism, help him out
–Focusing on the big picture.
–Know what your triggers are. Emphasize what will make you look good.
–Have a group meeting with the boss to encourage a quick decision.
THE STALKING BOSS
Research from the American Management Association found that managers value loyalty, commitment, initiative, organizational skills, writing skills, directness, and common sense in their subordinates. As appropriate, you may display/emphasize one of these traits in response to bullying behavior. Also, you can
–Match the behavior.
–Defend yourself.
–Stand.
–In questions of questionable assets, get your request in writing.
–When the boss stops for breath, jump out and ask him to slow down.
WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS
Employees don’t normally leave bad jobs. They leave bad blows. If none of your efforts are working, discuss leaving with those who are concerned about your good health. After all, as author and behavioral scientist Steve Maraboli points out, “nothing is worth poisoning yourself with stress, anxiety, and fear.” If you can’t make a toxic boss more likable, you surely can leave a toxic environment.