Good Article ;)
Source : The Hindu
Dealing with an insecure boss
IT TAKES all kinds to make the world and it takes all kinds of bosses to make up the workplace. We have heard of the boss who bullies, the one who is a dictator or the one who lives in an ivory tower in grand isolation cut from his/her subordinates. There are bosses who are perfectionists and expect others to be the same. Then there are those who are inexperienced, ineffective and bad communicators. Some tend to be abusive or manipulative while others micromanage. But having an insecure boss can do more damage to one's career than anything else. With such a boss the feeling of insecurity will affect the organisation's growth and, more importantly, jeopardise the careers of those working under him.
There are certain traits that such a boss displays which you can recognise and realise they stem from a deep feeling of insecurity. Once you are aware of these traits you will be able to think of ways to deal with them.
Your boss insists on being in absolute control of everyone and everything in the department. He is reluctant to delegate authority and does not trust anyone. The boss has few allies and those who are, form a coterie under his control.
The boss constantly interferes in the work of his juniors and nobody is allowed to think or act on their own.
Such a boss does not tolerate any criticism and when faced with it goes on the defensive mode. It is a challenge to their authority. The boss doubts whether he has the respect of his associates.
The insecure boss is often a perfectionist; mistakes are not tolerated. But if he makes a mistake the blame is put on someone else because the boss can never be wrong.
The insecure boss is often slow in taking decisions.
He will always remind others of his position and is quick to deride others but never laugh at his self.
Now that you are aware of the characteristics of an insecure boss and if you are unfortunate enough to work under one, then the following tips should help you deal with him tactfully:
Do not do or say anything that will affect your boss's self-esteem. Assure him through your words and actions that you respect his position and are committed to helping him do the job.
Identify the factors that make your boss feel insecure and try to help him in those areas.
If you have to challenge his views, do so in an indirect and positive manner. Do not question authority lines and never criticise your boss in front of others.
Never appeal to higher authorities while circumventing your boss. This will definitely alienate you in his eyes. It will also show your lack of respect for hierarchical relations in the organisation.
Give your boss more than a fair share of credit for your good work. Allow him to bask in the limelight.
There will always be some good, redeeming features in your boss, be sure to highlight them publicly and also privately.
Analyse your insecurities and how you deal with them, and use some of these methods to tackle those of your boss.
Though none of these tips are quick fix solutions to the problem of an insecure boss, they will certainly help you cope with the situation. With time you will learn to work with such a boss and develop a mutually fruitful relationship and advance in your career.
Dealing with an insecure boss
IT TAKES all kinds to make the world and it takes all kinds of bosses to make up the workplace. We have heard of the boss who bullies, the one who is a dictator or the one who lives in an ivory tower in grand isolation cut from his/her subordinates. There are bosses who are perfectionists and expect others to be the same. Then there are those who are inexperienced, ineffective and bad communicators. Some tend to be abusive or manipulative while others micromanage. But having an insecure boss can do more damage to one's career than anything else. With such a boss the feeling of insecurity will affect the organisation's growth and, more importantly, jeopardise the careers of those working under him.
There are certain traits that such a boss displays which you can recognise and realise they stem from a deep feeling of insecurity. Once you are aware of these traits you will be able to think of ways to deal with them.
Your boss insists on being in absolute control of everyone and everything in the department. He is reluctant to delegate authority and does not trust anyone. The boss has few allies and those who are, form a coterie under his control.
The boss constantly interferes in the work of his juniors and nobody is allowed to think or act on their own.
Such a boss does not tolerate any criticism and when faced with it goes on the defensive mode. It is a challenge to their authority. The boss doubts whether he has the respect of his associates.
The insecure boss is often a perfectionist; mistakes are not tolerated. But if he makes a mistake the blame is put on someone else because the boss can never be wrong.
The insecure boss is often slow in taking decisions.
He will always remind others of his position and is quick to deride others but never laugh at his self.
Now that you are aware of the characteristics of an insecure boss and if you are unfortunate enough to work under one, then the following tips should help you deal with him tactfully:
Do not do or say anything that will affect your boss's self-esteem. Assure him through your words and actions that you respect his position and are committed to helping him do the job.
Identify the factors that make your boss feel insecure and try to help him in those areas.
If you have to challenge his views, do so in an indirect and positive manner. Do not question authority lines and never criticise your boss in front of others.
Never appeal to higher authorities while circumventing your boss. This will definitely alienate you in his eyes. It will also show your lack of respect for hierarchical relations in the organisation.
Give your boss more than a fair share of credit for your good work. Allow him to bask in the limelight.
There will always be some good, redeeming features in your boss, be sure to highlight them publicly and also privately.
Analyse your insecurities and how you deal with them, and use some of these methods to tackle those of your boss.
Though none of these tips are quick fix solutions to the problem of an insecure boss, they will certainly help you cope with the situation. With time you will learn to work with such a boss and develop a mutually fruitful relationship and advance in your career.
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