What to do if you have a difficult boss?

The impact a bad manager, boss or leader can have on you and your life can be destructive and I know because I've been there.

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A survey of 2,100 UK employees, conducted by Visier, found that 43% of workers have left a job at some point in their career because of their manager.

Over my 12 years working in the corporate world, there are (at least) 2 managers I recall, who I found it extremely difficult to communicate with, on a daily basis.

And as this continued over a significant period of time, it knocked my confidence, I doubted my decisions and I found it difficult to communicate whilst holding back the tears.

This week I'm sharing my 3 tips to help you communicate differently which can change the course of the relationship that you have with your boss ….

ADAPT THE WAY YOU TALK

I've seen conflit happen again and again between a boss and a team member. They both have 2 different ways of communicating which often leads to frustrations and miscommunications. So instead of staying stuck in this space, think about how you can adapt your communication style to appeal to the way that your boss likes to receive information.

HAVE THE HARD CONVERSATIONS

If you don't like conflict or you've been programmed to avoid it like the plague, then having a hard conversation with your boss is going to feel near impossible. BUT I have witnessed the power of having the hard conversation and the way it can shift how you both feel, when you do this effectively. Take time to prep what you want to say and think about doing it without using accusatory language.

KNOW WHEN TO QUIT

There's a difference between a difficult boss and a toxic boss. You may be at the point where you've tried every technique you know and nothing is having a positive impact. Remember you're only ever in control of your behaviour and your actions. Whilst you can influence your boss, you can't make them change. So it's up to you to decide is this a relationship that's costing you more than you'd like?

MANTRA: I'm capable of dealing with difficult people and will not give away my power

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“WHAT ARE YOU FINDING DIFFICULT ABOUT THE RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR BOSS?”

I’ve shared this week’s journal prompt above so take 5, grab your phone, a notepad or record your thoughts on audio and spend time reflecting on this question