Evil Boss or Is It Me???

A best friend at work has been promoted and is now your supervisor. Now she has turned wicked. Is it her…or You?? Or, maybe you just do not like your boss, plain and simple.

A previous friend turned boss knows any negativity you may have discussed through the months or years. He or she has a fresh start now, but they know how you have felt in the past. Here is a chance for Both of you to start fresh!

If you blame your boss for too much work, have high expectations that you do not feel are being met, feel that you deserve a promotion because you have been at your company forever, or you do not feel challenged enough, it may be time to look inside.

It is not possible to change other people, so it may be necessary to change personally unless we are up for the challenge of multiple applications and interview after interview constantly looking for a better boss.

It may be possible to learn a few things about ourselves, and how to deal with difficult people.

Do not take personally when your boss, or anyone else for that matter, gives a short answer or acts annoyed. He or she could be preoccupied with a number of any other things, from work related to home life, that have nothing to do with you.  

Always be up front and truthful. If asked if a project will be finished by a deadline, and it will not, say so. Even if your supervisor is upset initially, they will appreciate the honesty later. If they have to report to their supervisor or a client, they would rather be honest than tell them several times that a project is delayed.

Even if it feels like everyone all around is negative, strive to be upbeat.  Look for the positive in situations, as it cannot all be bad. And if all else fails, perform your best for yourself. You can sleep at night knowing you gave your all on a project. Even taking lessons from others on what NOT to do and how NOT to treat others is turning a negative situation into a positive one.

It is never a bad idea to keep track of your projects in a portfolio, and even a calendar. If there is ever a question, you have backup to show your work.  Be specific, “I finished this project in three days which was two days before the deadline”, not just “I finish projects on time”.

Stay involved with the department, offering solutions if a supervisor is unavailable. Co-workers and even other departments will notice you being reliable and available to assist – and who knows? They may have an opening with a different supervisor!