Monday, 15 June 2015

Talk To An Unlikable Boss

You can establish a working relationship with your unlikable boss.


At some point in life, you may end up working with a boss who is mean, condescending, impossible to communicate with or otherwise unlikable. This can cause a lot of stress and strain on you, and make the quality of your work suffer as a result of your unhappiness. While talking to a difficult manager may seem impossible, it can drastically improve the way you view your job and the level of happiness you feel while working.


Instructions


1. Greet your boss by wishing him a good morning/afternoon every day when you see him. Ask how his day is going. This will demonstrate that you are friendly and caring, two characteristics that make you seem approachable, even when your boss does not.


2. Ask what you can do to improve your contributions to the company. This will establish that you are a diligent and trustworthy worker, both of which are characteristics you want your boss to see in order to establish a friendly, professional relationship. If your boss views you as an employee who is willing to go above and beyond what is expected, she is more likely to treat you with respect and behave in a way that is more likable.


3. Make small talk in situations where it is appropriate to do so. Whether you mention the weather outside or ask about his children, engaging your boss in friendly conversation is a good way to get him to reveal his more likable side. Just make sure that these conversations do not occur on company time when you should be working instead. During a coffee or lunch break or on your way out the door are examples of appropriate times to make small talk.


4. Find out if you have anything in common with your supervisor. Small talk may lead to learning that you both share a mutual love for a certain band, food or author. Having mutual interests will make you both feel more comfortable and at ease in each other's presence.


5. Seize the opportunity to respond when your boss initiates small talk in a group. For example, if she asks if anyone has plans for the weekend, take this as an opportunity to strike up a conversation. This is another way to show that you are friendly and approachable. Like initiating the small talk yourself, responding to her attempts to initiate is an essential part of forming good communication skills with your boss.


6. Ask to meet with your boss for a one-on-one conversation if all other attempts to communicate have failed. A personal meeting will allow you to address your concerns might be handled in the future. Prepare an outline of what you want to discuss in the meeting ahead of time. This will prove your maturity and organization skills.