Survive Your Manager and Thrive in Business

Avoid confrontation:

If you have a different opinion and your boss refuses to consider your viewpoint, say what you have to say and leave it at that. Avoid arguing too much. It will anger your boss, even if you share a good relationship. Usually, bosses don’t like to be confronted and would surely like to have the last word. It will be easier if you make your point at a later stage or a later date when the atmosphere is more relaxed or when you meet for appraisals.[pullquote]If you have a different opinion and your boss refuses to consider your viewpoint, say what you have to say and leave it at that. Avoid arguing too much.[/pullquote] Bosses who are interested in the progress of their team members will consider your opinion since appraisals involve higher level authorities. You may get a chance to explain yourself and indirectly reveal the irrational approach of your immediate boss, if that’s the way he normally behaves.

Document every detail:

It’s absolutely essential to keep records of every discussion, decisions taken, tasks allocated, strategies adopted, deadlines, etc. This way you’re able to maintain a clear stand on your actions. It makes it difficult for people to corner you, especially if your boss is a spoilsport and derives pleasure from seeing his subordinates in trouble. That may be his way of feeling superior and ensuring that no one challenges his statements. If you have verifiable, documented details, you can share them with higher authorities and expose your boss’s unhealthy policies.

It has been observed that people who are happy with their leaders have better health compared to others who are not excited about going to work or business the next day because they dread meeting their boss. Liking your job and your boss as your leader is important for your performance and your overall wellness.

When all is said and done, the most important aspect of your job is to Love It. If you don’t like what you’re doing, leave it. There’s no way you’ll be able to hold on to such a job for long. If you like your profession and still have issues because of your boss, learn to adapt and make things positive for your survival. It’s essential to not compromise on your self-respect and happiness by submitting to the whims and fancies of dominating authorities.

Shelly Verma is an avid small business writer touching on topics from insurance, health, higher education, career improvement, self-help to home improvement.