Having a difficult manager can be a challenging experience. It can cause stress, frustration, and even a desire to leave your job. However, leaving may not always be the best solution. Sometimes, it’s better to learn how to build a positive relationship with your difficult manager. In this article, we will provide advice for employees who are struggling to work with a difficult manager but are not yet ready to leave their job. We will offer tips for building a positive relationship with the manager, such as finding common ground, focusing on shared goals, and communicating effectively.
How do you know if you are working for a difficult manager?
- Do you find it challenging to communicate with your manager?
- Does your manager often criticize your work without providing constructive feedback?
- Does your manager ignore your suggestions and ideas?
- Does your manager micromanage you and your tasks?
- Do you feel that your manager has unrealistic expectations?
- Does your manager play favorites and treat some employees better than others?
- Does your manager belittle or demean you or your coworkers?
- Does your manager frequently change their mind, causing confusion and frustration?
- Does your manager fail to provide adequate resources or support for your work?
- Does your manager frequently ignore company policies or engage in unethical behavior?
How do you build a positive relationship with a difficult manager?
1. Understand your manager’s perspective
One of the keys to building a positive relationship with a difficult manager is understanding their perspective. Try to put yourself in their shoes and see things from their point of view. This can help you understand why they behave the way they do and what motivates them. By understanding their perspective, you can find ways to work with them more effectively.
2. Find common ground
Another way to build a positive relationship with a difficult manager is to find common ground. Look for areas where your interests and goals align. This could be a shared commitment to quality work, a desire for efficiency, or a passion for a particular project. By identifying areas of common ground, you can build a foundation for a more positive relationship.
3. Focus on shared goals
In addition to finding common ground, focusing on shared goals is important. This means identifying what you and your manager want to achieve and working together to make them happen. By focusing on shared goals, you can create a sense of teamwork and collaboration, which can help build a more positive relationship.
4. Communicate effectively
Effective communication is crucial when building a positive relationship with a difficult manager. Be clear and concise when communicating with your manager, and ensure you are actively listening to them as well. This can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust. Additionally, try to stay calm and professional, even if your manager becomes defensive or argumentative.
5. Be open to feedback
Finally, be open to feedback from your manager. Although it can be difficult to hear criticism, it’s important to remember that your manager’s feedback is intended to help you grow and improve. So take the feedback in stride and use it as an opportunity to learn and develop your skills.
Building a positive relationship with a difficult manager takes time, patience, and effort. However, following these tips can create a more positive and productive working relationship. Remember, leaving your job may not always be the best solution – sometimes, it’s better to work through the difficulties and build a positive relationship with your manager.
