Working with a difficult Boss? 6 approaches that may help

Working with people is one of the most difficult things to do whether in a workplace, a socio-political organisation or in a community association. Human nature is naturally complex and understanding it may take time and conscious energy. Many times, people alter statements like "my boss is too difficult, I do not know what He/She wants" or things like "maybe I should resign or maybe I should look for another job". The frustration goes on and on, affects productivity, breeds negative emotions and alas someone gets toxic and affects other employees.

I believe before issues get out of hand, it is important for the employee in question to seek help and maybe consider a change of approach in dealing with Senior or Junior colleagues. I have listed below a few things that can be done in managing a difficult colleague or boss.

1. Have a one-on-one discussion: People get angry in the workplace without taking the pain to sit down to discuss. We tend to assume this is what the other person feels or this is what the person wants and we get it wrong. The moment you start working with a new colleague/boss or you are having issues with your colleague/boss, try and request a private meeting. Make sure that your introductory statement shows that you are willing to listen to and learn. You may consider a statement like; "I appreciate the opportunity to have this private meeting with me, I am aware we may not have had a good working relationship in the past but sincerely I am willing to work with you, learn from you and adjust so we can have a mutually rewarding relationship" You must show an attitude to listen to them and hear their frustrations about you and how you can improve the working relationship.
2. Get them to talk by asking questions: Considering that you are having a discussion with a Boss or colleague that you have not had a so-good relationship with, you need to ask some questions to get them talking. You can consider statements like; "Please, what do you think are the shortcomings you have identified with my work that I can improve on?" Another statement could be "I am sorry I have had to give you extra work through my work output, I assure you I am willing to get it right this time but I need your help, what would you suggest I improve on or focus on so that my work output will improve?"
3. Listen and do not argue: One major problem we all have is the inability to listen carefully while having a discussion with colleagues or superiors. I have been a culprit to this as well and am learning to listen more. Do not in any way argue as arguments can be misinterpreted as a confrontation even if your intention is clear and noble.
4. Agree on measurable deliverables beforehand: Most times we get carried away with the job without agreeing on deliverables and timing with the Supervisor. This creates a lot of expectation gap between both parties thereby affecting the overall output. It is important you agree on work deliverable and make sure it is documented via a mail so that it can be easily measured upon completion without any form of disagreement. This also helps the performance appraisal process and prevents conflicts.
5. Run your proposed actions through your Supervisor: I believe that no supervisor wants to be left in the dark about what is happening under their control. Try and run your actions and reports through your supervisor and ask for their inputs and opinion. This makes them feel carried along and in a way, their ego is catered for. This may help how you are seen or perceived and may improve your working relationship with your supervisor.
6. When in doubt, ask questions: Most of us are shy or afraid to ask questions about a task assigned to us and we end up doing it our way. This is usually not a good approach as you would have wasted time doing what is different from the requirement. It is better to politely ask questions or make clarifications when in doubt rather than going your way.

Above all, we must take time to study and understand what the people we work with like and dislike. We must also understand their work pattern and try and adjust to suit such patterns. Believe that you can work with anyone and work towards However, do not conform to any form of harassment from a supervisor or a colleague. Where there is any form of harassment, try and discuss with the necessary department responsible for such immediately it is beyond what you can handle.

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