Help For An Upset Employee
What To Do When The Boss Doesn't Like What You Do
A reader asks for help in dealing with a verbally abusive boss/situation.
Note: The question is reprinted as received, but all names are changed or deleted, as well as any identifying personal information.
Q. Please help! I can't take it anymore! My boss is always bugging me and picking on me. No matter what I do, it is never enough to please him. He is not this bad with the others. And he insults me in front of the customers. Don't tell me to quit - this is the first job I have not been laid off from in awhile - the economy sucks! My unemployment has run out, and I have bills to pay.
- Upset
A. Of course you are upset - anyone would be if subjected to constant criticism. You mention though that you have had a hard time holding onto jobs, and although not your fault (you were laid off), you probably feel pretty low.
First of all, start to document the times your boss degrades you, and also note who the witnesses are, if any. You say he is not as bad with other employees - but does he still put them down in front of other employees or customers? If so, have you talked to them about the situation as a whole? Perhaps all of you could approach the boss and quietly point out concerns about his behaviour to all of you. That way, no one is singled out. You must be tactful though - if you come onto him that it is all his fault, he'll just get defensive and the situation may get worse. Try to see it from his side - is he a perfectionist? See if there is a compromise that could be made - does he want certain things done in an order - and would it matter if that order were changed as long as the outcome was the same?
A major point though is that arguing or finding fault with staff in front of customers can be bad for business, ANY business. Point out that it embarrasses both you and the customer, so if he could refrain from any criticisms in front of customers, it would help. He could write it down instead. This would also give you some evidence if you felt the need or desire to take this to a Labour Board for harassment.
You also need to ensure you are not doing things wrong. If it is a matter of doing it his way or your way, try to do it his way occasionally and see what happens.
More importantly though, is your self esteem. Losing other jobs does NOT mean you should put up with harassment or a very negative environment.
Talk this over with someone you trust, and your colleagues. Let me know what happens.
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Copyright March 18, 2008. Paym Bergson and Suite 101. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use of this material will constitute an infringement of copyright.
