Maneuvering your way around a workplace can be tricky sometimes. Especially, when faced with a dominating boss. Professional boundaries should be respected regardless of hierarchy and even though, boss and bossy may sound similar, one is not a prerequisite for the other. In fact, a good boss is one who is adaptable, flexible and ultimately works to empowers his employees.
While, assertiveness in leadership is necessary, there is a thin line between being reasonable and imposing yourself on other people. If you feel like your boss is being too controlling; not allowing you to enjoy your work and do well at your job, then here are some ways you can deal with it:
Take a Moment
In certain occasions, especially in professional environments, it is wise to not give into one’s emotions. If you feel angry, take a moment to cool down. Drink some water, go for a walk. Take the chance to look at the situation calmly. A strong front is the best defense.
Don’t be Passive Aggressive
While, being on either side of the spectrum may not prove to be very helpful, it is also suggested that you should refrain from being passive aggressive. A shrug, a sigh or an eye-roll will only build tension and not diffuse it. By showing these emotions, you are still letting the person affect you and in turn, control you. If you find yourself responding to tense situation in a way you might have as a teenager, step back and re-think your response. The best way to handle a situation like this is to be respectful yet assertive.
Try Humor
People in command generally do not expect humor to be a standard response, so when faced by a quirky remark, they may be caught off-guard and lose their controlling demeanor, even if it is just for a while. It is important to remember that your boss is still a person (even if he is having a bad day), so try to appeal to the more humane side of the authority. However, setting the tone right while using this approach is of utmost importance; a certain amount of nonchalance will be needed from your side.
Recognize Your Emotions
Feelings of resentment and anger could keep you away from performing well at your job. It is very important that you address those feelings and understand the source. In cases like these, open communication is very important. Keeping in mind professional boundaries, be sure to express to the other person what they are making you feel and how it may be affecting your work. Try to reach a mutually beneficial ground.
Stand Up For Yourself
Sometimes, in certain situations, it is necessary to stand up for yourself, in order to make sure that the negative situation does not recur. When you let someone treat you badly without doing anything about it, then the silence encourages that behavior. Dominating bosses may be scary but you should not let that keep you from standing your ground.
Move On
If nothing seems to work and quitting is not a viable option, then move on. Toxic people get their cues from the reactions they are able to produce. Take the high road and disregard minor altercations. Remember, your job is just a job at the end of the day and should not dictate your perspective on self-worth. Remember to be truthful to yourself about how you feel if it is at the expense of another person, even if the person is your boss.
Also Read: 5 Types of Office Politicians and How to Handle Them