Difficulties with your boss? Here's how to deal with it!

Even the perfect job can quickly become a pure stress factor due to a difficult boss - how do you deal with this and when is the right time to leave? Conflicts are part of working life, but when there is constant pressure to perform, no appreciation or even personal conflicts with the boss, it's time to do something about it. Here we show you which signs you can use to quickly recognize difficult bosses in advance and our tips for the best way to deal with such a situation - either to improve the situation or, if nothing else helps, to take a new path.

Signs of difficult bosses and superiors

Humiliating, unappreciative, quick-tempered and unfair? There are extremely many character traits that indicate poor cooperation. A difficult boss can be characterized by various types of behaviour: constant criticism, micromanagement, lack of recognition, lack of respect, unrealistic expectations or even aggressive behaviour. 

Such behavior can poison the working atmosphere and lower your motivation. If you notice such signs, it is important to react appropriately and quickly, either by taking the initiative personally or by seeking a discussion with a higher-level manager or the HR department.

Dealing with difficult superiors: Our tips

Dealing with a difficult boss can be challenging. Here are some practical tips to help you deal with the situation:

• Seek a direct conversation: An open conversation can clarify misunderstandings, change expectations and improve communication in the future. Prepare yourself well by having specific examples ready and remain as objective and constructive as possible.
• Set boundaries: Communicate clearly what is acceptable to you and what is not. This applies to workload, tone of voice and general behavior. 
• Use support: Talk to colleagues who have had similar experiences and possibly seek advice from the HR department. They can advise you and intervene if necessary.
• Keep documentation: Keep a written record of problematic incidents, including dates and witness statements, especially if you are considering a formal complaint.

By taking these measures, you can proactively try to improve your work situation! It is also best to consider in advance how you can best prepare for a conflict discussion in order to find effective solutions. If the above strategies don't work, a job change could be worth considering.

Difficult boss - when is the right time to resign?

If all attempts to improve the situation fail and your well-being suffers greatly from the conflicts, then quitting will be the last resort. Of course, this can be a difficult decision, as financial reasons also play a role here - but ultimately it will still be the right decision! If you are of the opinion that further discussions with your boss, line manager and HR department will not help, then it is the right time to look for something new.

Before you hand in your notice of termination, you should find out more about your rights and the best way to proceed: Our guide Understanding and mastering termination gives you useful tips on how to approach this process - we wish you every success in your job search!

Successful job search with WorkerHero

Ready for a new job? Then let's go - WorkerHero is ready to help you find a new job. On our platform you will find numerous offers specifically for skilled workers in production and skilled trades - in the blue and gray collar area. Whether you work as an electrician, HVAC plant mechanic or in another specialist field - you'll find the right job with us. Prepare yourself optimally for your new challenge with our tips after a successful job change.

At WorkerHero, we help you take the next step in your career and find a work environment where you can thrive! Discover our website for more guidelines for a smooth job change!