The majority of the time, working for a boss means taking instructions and being asked to do stuff. However, sometimes we get asked to do stuff that we're not too keen on but because it's part of the job, accept the request, and get on with it. Occasionally though, we will be asked to do something by our boss that we are just not happy to comply with and this can create a real problem. Do we just accept it and get on it, probably with growing resentment to our boss and job, or do we stand our ground and say "no, I am not happy to do this"? A lot will depend on the type of boss we have, but if we do decide to go ahead and say no to our boss, there are ways to increase the possibility of our refusal being accepted without a major drama occurring. Be Clear First and foremost, establish a clear and concise rationale as to why you are saying no. Have the facts and figures, and reasons clearly outlined in your mind. You will increase the chances of your request bring granted if you also … [Read more...] about How to Say "No" to Your Boss
All About Bosses
How to Deal With a Bully Boss
You’ve just started a great job, but you find yourself dealing with a bully boss. What do you do? You don’t want to lose the job, but you deserve to be treated better. Don’t worry. You’re not powerless. Learn how to deal with this type of boss and get the respect you deserve. Realize It’s Not You The first step is to realize it’s not you. Many employees blame themselves. The truth is a bully boss doesn’t target you because you’re a bad employee. They’re just bad bosses. Start by saying to yourself “my boss is a bully.” You’ll feel better and more ready to take on the situation. … [Read more...] about How to Deal With a Bully Boss
Decoding Your Boss
Does it feel like you need to learn another language for decoding what your boss is really saying? Many employees feel they have take CIA sanctioned courses simply to figure out the meaning behind the arcane messages sent by managers. Well, you do not have to invest in code breaking software for decoding your boss. In fact, you can follow a few time-tested tips and avoid the hair-pulling frustration caused by muddled communication from your boss. Non-Verbal Cues Ask any attorneys worth their legal salt how they understand witness testimony and the answer invariably lies in non-verbal communication cues. If your boss appears fidgety when addressing you, the message sent probably is not what your boos truly intends to say. You may have to guide your boss down the road of truth by replying with affirming message such as "I understand" and "That makes sense." Other non-verbal cues to watch include facial expressions, posture, and hand movements. Calm, reasoned discourses confirm the … [Read more...] about Decoding Your Boss
The Worst and Best Things to Say to Your Boss
Your boss holds enormous power over you. A lot of sway when it comes to your salary, your daily duties and your future prospects. All of which means you really need to manage that relationship. Every word you say has the potential to launch you into upper middle management or sink you to the depths of the unemployed. So, no pressure, right? Now that you’re nice and relaxed, let’s go over what are the worst and best things to say to your immediate supervisor: Worst “You are an undermining character with no scruples and I am convinced that you want me to get you coffee for the rest of my working life.” Best “I have learned a lot from you, but I want to try to transfer to another department. I think it is the best choice for both of us.” Sometimes moving on is the best option for both you and your overlord. You get to breathe again and they get to suck the youthful energy out of another unsuspecting, eager entry-level analyst. It may be tough to pull it off, but best for your sanity and, … [Read more...] about The Worst and Best Things to Say to Your Boss
When a Good Boss Becomes a Bad Boss
You enjoy your work and have a good relationship with your boss when you begin to notice that things are different; something is changing. The compliments become fewer and the criticisms more regular. The tactics that you used to keep your boss happy, don't work anymore. Your good boss becomes a bad boss. What to do? 1. Have You a Part to Play? If your relationship with your boss has changed, can you see what's really going on? Have you been slacking recently? Been off your game? Maybe you're unhappy with a decision your boss has made. The change may have nothing to do with you, but it is worth checking in with yourself and being honest to make sure that you are not part of the problem. If you find that you are, what can you do to resolve your part in the situation? 2. Don't Take it Personally When someone changes their behavior towards us for the negative, it can be easy to take it personally, but try not to, whatever the situation. Stay professional and … [Read more...] about When a Good Boss Becomes a Bad Boss
How To Deal With A Difficult Boss
Have you got a difficult boss? Do you find it hard to work with your boss or feel that you cannot do anything right? Having a difficult boss can make life hard. At the end of the day, you want to have a good relationship with your boss as they (directly or indirectly) pay your wages. Here are a few thoughts about hot to deal with a difficult boss: Identify The Problem What specifically do you find difficult about working for your boss? Be specific. For example, do you feel that they never recognize the work you do? Maybe you feel that they never give clear instructions and consequently you find it hard to know what to do to do your job well. There may be many things that you find hard about working for your boss. Getting clear about the problem(s) will help you to find a solution or at least a more satisfactory way to deal with it. Take Responsibility What is your part in the difficult relationship between you and your boss? It is easy to think that “it is all … [Read more...] about How To Deal With A Difficult Boss
Boss Says: Do NOT Listen to Music at Work
The Jobacle inbox has recently been hit with several emails from employees complaining that their jobs do not let them listen to music at work. Not cool. I am one of those people who is driven by music; it is my lifeblood. It helps me concentrate, keeps me motivated, and puts a rhythm to my day like nothing else. Boss's who let me listen to music, get more out of me. But hey, it's their world, I'm just living in it. So let me put on my corporate cap and give you some insight as to why your company won't let you rock out at your desk. - You’re getting paid to give your full attention to your job. Even if you are an “expert” multi-tasker, your compensation is for 100% -- not 99%. - Headphones can keep you from hearing your phone ring, your email chime, or drown out any other audible communication cue. - What if everyone was in headphones? Teamwork and synergy would be flushed down the drain. - You put the person who comes to your desk, including your boss, in the awkward … [Read more...] about Boss Says: Do NOT Listen to Music at Work
National Bosses Day Is a Joke
Bosses should thank employees, not the other way around. Case closed. Even if your boss pampers you. Fights for you. Goes out of her way for you. Bosses are thanked every time that you make them look good. Every time you let them concentrate on another project because they know you have yours under control. Every time they get promoted. Perhaps this is why Boss's Day drives me nuts. Mad Men's Don Draper had it right when he shouted... "THAT'S WHAT THE MONEY'S FOR!" It's a lesson I learned from my mom as a kid and have never let it go. So if you hate my stance on this, take it up with Mama Rosen, the payroll secretary from Queens. Mark Stevens, president of the marketing firm MSCO and the author of Your Marketing Sucks, offers up his take on Bosses Day. "The dumbest idea I have ever heard of. It is my job, and that of every leader, to celebrate my team not to have them go through the motions of a Hallmark day for me. " Yet Hallmark has been cashing in since … [Read more...] about National Bosses Day Is a Joke
Why Your Boss Secretly Hates Remote Work
Common sense and multiple surveys tell us that a majority of workers believe they can do their jobs from home. Even President Obama often extols the virtues of remote work. We know that at-home workers have greater flexibility, in theory, improving their work-life balance. Add in the money employees save on commuting costs and the money companies save on skyrocketing utilities, and it equals a big win for Mother Nature.But there’s a dirty little secret that corporate America doesn’t want you to know. The reality is, most employers are not supportive of remote working. In an attempt to appear progressive, they pretend that flexible schedules are more of an option than they really are.Here are the reasons your boss wants to make sure your butt is at the office on a daily basis:Control. When you work from home your boss can't call you into his office on a whim. And let’s be honest, many bosses, especially ones who have held positions of power for decades, love to do … [Read more...] about Why Your Boss Secretly Hates Remote Work
What Gilligan's Island Can Teach You About Your Boss
This world would be a better place if none of us had to deal with a cranky boss who has unrealistic expectations. It would also be helpful if the pot at the end of the rainbow could be found behind your local Starbucks. But that’s not how things work and until they do you’ll have to figure out how to deal with your boss. To come up with a viable strategy we can look to the characters on the classic television show "Gilligan’s Island." Each castaway exhibits one of five distinct personality traits. Once you know which category your boss falls into you’ll have a better idea of how best to work with him or her. And if nothing works, you'll need a guide on how to quit. Just sit right back... The Millionaire -- Here we have the Narcissist. He has an inflated ego, views his employees as his personal waitstaff and may or may not speak with a clenched jaw. He is assertive, goal-oriented and success-driven. He does not tolerate incompetence. How to cope In short, you’ll need to stroke … [Read more...] about What Gilligan's Island Can Teach You About Your Boss