Dealing with practical life is already tiring, but dealing with a vindictive boss? It is the worst thing. Do you know how to deal with a vindictive boss?
No one deserves to have a vindictive boss. Unfortunately, these kinds of bosses are all too common. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s essential to protect yourself.
How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss In 13 Proven Ways
Revenge-taking keeps mental peace from you. But vindictive people put everyone in a toxic environment.
So before things get ugly in your workplace, keep following these proven ways to deal with them. The patterns are as follows:
1. Remain Calm and Collected
No one likes it if someone bullies them, especially at work. It’s essential to remain calm and not lash out in anger or retaliation.
You can’t force your boss to stop being vengeful if you’re also acting the same way. Remain calm, collected, and professional at all times.
Your boss may try to bait you into an argument or confrontation, but don’t take the bait.
Thus, stay calm and professional at all times, no matter how tempting it may be to lash out.
2. How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss- Document Everything
If your boss is vindictive, it’s essential to document everything. Keep a journal of any conversations, emails, or incidents that occur.
It will help you if you need to take legal action later on. It can also help you show your boss that you’re not backing down.
When dealing with a vindictive boss, deciding what steps to take first can be challenging. Well, you should always try working things out with your boss whenever possible.
However, if that doesn’t work, then you’ll need evidence that proves their behavior is out of line.
Have a trusted friend record every incident as soon as it happens. Always keep all emails, texts, and voicemails from your boss as proof.
It will help you prove what happened if things get ugly. And also in case your boss tries to put the entire blame on you.
3. Talk To Other Coworkers
If you have other coworkers affected by your boss’ behavior, it’s essential to talk to them.
You can support each other and share strategies for dealing with the situation.
Talking to other coworkers is also a great way to get that third-party witness you need if things get worse.
4. Find Out Who You Can Trust
When your boss behaves vindictively, it can be challenging to know who you can trust. But finding out who you can trust at work is one of the most critical steps to take if your boss bullies you.
You might think that no one cares about what’s happening to you, but there are probably many people who do.
It just takes time for them to open up and prove themselves worthy of your trust.
5. Get Advice From Coworker Relations Or The Human Resources Department
Before talking with your boss, it’s essential to seek professional advice.
There are many resources available to you. Some companies have a company’s Coworker Relations department. The Human Resources department can also be the resource.
These departments are set up to help employees in difficult situations. And they will be able to give you sound advice on how to proceed.
6. Let Your Boss Know How His Behavior Is Making You Feel
If you’re uncomfortable with your boss’ behavior, let him know.
Many bosses don’t realize they’re vindictive and can change their behavior if told.
However, some bosses might react if someone tells them they are wrong. In this case, it might be best to move on to one of the other steps.
7. Take Time For Yourself
It’s essential to take time for yourself when dealing with a vindictive boss. It means taking some time away from work to relax and de-stress.
You might also want to consider talking to a therapist or counselor about what’s going on at work.
It can help sort through your feelings. You will be able to get some guidance on dealing with the situation.
8. How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss- Set Boundaries
If your boss is crossing boundaries, it’s essential to set boundaries. It means putting limits on the amount of contact you have with him and what topics are off-limits.
You can refuse to do specific tasks or projects that he asks of you. It can be challenging initially, but it’s an essential step in dealing with a vindictive boss.
9. Document Everything Again
Documenting everything is an integral part of the process. It helps you remember what happened when things got crazy.
It’s also helpful if your boss tries to make things up or tells lies about you.
10. How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss- Find Allies
Finding allies at work can be difficult when your boss is behaving vindictively.
But when you take time out for yourself, meet new people, and focus on building up your self-esteem. It becomes easier to build this support system.
By staying away from your boss, you’ll also give others the space they need to approach you.
Allies can provide a listening ear, support, and advice when you need it.
11. How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss- Talk To Your Union Rep
Your union rep can be a valuable ally if you’re in a union.
They can help you advocate for yourself. It might be able to get involved in getting your boss to change his behavior.
12. Get A New Job
It isn’t always an option. But if you feel like your vindictive boss is making your life miserable, then it might be time to look for a new job.
There are many great jobs out there. Thus, it is essential to remember that you don’t have to put up with this kind of behavior.
13. How To Deal With A Vindictive Boss- Reach Out For Help
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t handle the situation on your own, reach out for help. Many organizations can offer you support and guidance.
You can also talk to a friend or family member about what’s going on at work. No one should have to deal with a vindictive boss alone.
Who Is A Vindictive Boss?
A vindictive boss is a boss who takes their anger and frustration out on employees.
This type of behavior makes the work environment uncomfortable and hostile for employees.
It often leads to turnover and can damage employee morale. Thus, there are many reasons that leaders behave in this way, including:
– Feeling powerless
– Lack of self-confidence
– Need to be right all the time
Types Of Situations Vindictive Boss Creates- Red Flags
There are certain behaviors from your boss that are red flags. It is essential to identify them at the right time and take action. Below are some of such situations:
1. Micromanaging
It means the boss constantly watches you, checks your work, and tells you what to do. That’s probably a sign that your boss is dealing with challenges elsewhere.
A vindictive boss might micromanage because they feel the need to control everything. It can also be a way for them to intimidate employees.
2. Increased Pressure And Unreasonable Deadlines
Bosses often use the increased pressure and unreasonable deadlines as punishment.
This type of behavior can lead employees to feel incompetent at their jobs. In the end, it can lead them to find new opportunities elsewhere.
3. Stonewalling Employees When They Ask Questions Or Express Concerns
Such a boss doesn’t want to talk about problems or hear employees’ concerns. It’s likely because they don’t want to hear constructive criticism.
Accusing employees of being incompetent and playing favorites are some inappropriate behaviors.
4. Shame And Embarrass Employees In Front Of Others
Many bosses can yell at their employees. But, well, a vindictive boss embarrasses their employees in front of others.
It’s often done to make employees feel bad and strip them of their self-esteem.
5. Ignore Or Avoid Meetings With Employees
When a boss doesn’t meet with you, they likely want to take disciplinary action against you.
The vindictive boss might avoid meeting with employees or ignore the matter altogether.
6. The Boss Has A Bad Attitude And Acts Unprofessionally
An evil, unprofessional behavior often signs that something is upsetting your boss.
The problem can stem from many things, like company policies or issues at home.
Thus, if you feel like your boss may be acting out because they are unhappy, it’s essential to watch the situation.
7. Vindictive Boss Doesn’t Give Employees Appropriate Credit For Projects Or Work
A vindictive boss doesn’t give proper credit to the employees who worked on projects. It makes them appear incompetent in front of others.
Conclusion:
No one should have to deal with a vindictive boss. If you’re experiencing any of the behaviors listed above, it’s essential to take action.
Reach out for help if you need it, and be sure to keep an eye on the situation. Many organizations can offer support and guidance.
Remember, you don’t have to put up with this kind of behavior. You should document everything and find allies who can support you.
Follow the ways and ensure you deal with a vindictive boss in the best way.
Last Updated on 3 hours by Shahzaib Arshad
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