How To Deal With Backstabbing Boss At Work In 12 Ways

Written By Shahzaib Arshad

Did your boss betray your trust? It’s time to learn how to deal with a backstabbing boss at work.

A backstabbing boss pretends to be your friend while damaging your reputation.

Key Takeaways

  • Look out for behaviors like taking credit for your work and creating conflicts.

  • Acknowledge and act on your emotions if you feel betrayed or hurt.

  • Gather information from colleagues and online reviews to understand their reputation.

  • Keep a detailed record of incidents and conversations to support your case.

  • Consider reasons like jealousy or insecurity that might drive your boss’s behavior.

  • Plan your approach and be ready for different outcomes, including escalation to HR.

  • Present your evidence calmly and ask direct questions about their actions.

  • If the situation doesn’t improve, consider seeking new job opportunities that value your skills and well-being.

  • Dealing with a backstabbing boss is challenging, but taking proactive steps can help you navigate the situation effectively.

How To Deal With Backstabbing Boss At Work In 12 Ways

Sometimes, your boss might act like a friend but betray you. Here are twelve ways to handle a backstabbing boss at work.

1. Identify the behavior:

The first step in dealing with a backstabbing boss is recognizing their behavior.

Sometimes, it’s hard to tell if your boss is backstabbing you due to differences in perception.

How To Deal With Backstabbing Boss At Work

 

Look out for these signs:

– Taking credit for your work

– Creating unnecessary conflicts

– Talking behind your back

– Gaining your trust only to betray you

Identifying a backstabbing boss can be challenging because they often have excuses or claim it’s their duty. If you suspect something’s off, start paying attention.

2. Be Frank About Your Feelings:

Being honest about your feelings helps you. Everyone has boundaries and tolerance levels, and your emotions guide you to stand up for yourself.

Trust your instincts, and don’t doubt your feelings. If you feel hurt or betrayed, acknowledge it and take action.

3. Google Your Boss:

Ask colleagues how long they’ve been with the company and where they worked. You can learn more about your boss by asking.

bad leaders

 

Search online for reviews or posts about them. Look at forums where employees rate their bosses to see if their boss is praised or criticized.

4. Document Everything/Collect Evidence:

Don’t act impulsively when you’re angry. Instead, document everything at work. If your boss speaks badly about you, note down names and details.

Keep a diary of his behavior, but avoid using foul language—it could backfire. Track his emails and phone calls, and record conversations if possible.

This way, you’ll have written and audio proof if needed.

5. Figure Out His Motives Against You:

Understand why your boss is backstabbing you. Their actions could be driven by jealousy, insecurity, a complex, or a desire to hurt you or fire you right away.

bad bosses

 

If you’ve been with the company for a while, something might have triggered this behavior. Reflect on any past actions that might have upset your boss.

They might want to fire you for questioning their behavior or envy your potential promotion.

6. Prepare Yourself For The Battle – How To Deal With Backstabbing Boss At Work:

Be prepared and stay focused on your goals. Before you face your boss, decide what outcome you want, such as an apology or dismissal.

Plan and prepare for worst-case scenarios, such as losing your job, temporary suspension, or transferring.

Nothing can stop you if you’re ready. Also, consider your next job in case things don’t work out.

8. Talk To Your Boss Right Away:

Confront your boss calmly and directly. Gather evidence first and present it. Ask why he acted the way he did and whether he had an agenda.

Stay polite and composed; avoid shouting or anger. Moreover, please do not lose your confidence, as you deserve answers for his actions.

9. Talk To Human Resources:

If your boss doesn’t respond well or change his behavior, go to HR. Explain the situation and show them the evidence you’ve collected.

people's behavior

 

Ask coworkers who witnessed the incidents to support you. Let your boss know you’re serious, but be ready for any outcome.

10. Stay Away From Him:

If you are concerned about your boss’s behavior, it is best to keep your distance.

Focus on your work to cut contact and avoid further issues.

11. Quit If Nothing Changes:

If nothing changes after talking to Human Resources, the last resort is quitting. Update your resume and start looking for another job.

Ask your friends to refer you or search for jobs on job portals. It is time to take care of yourself and leave the toxic environment. 

12. Take Time Out For Yourself:

Break from that toxic environment and treat yourself to a good dinner with friends or family. Moreover, if necessary, go to a therapist.

You cannot work in an environment where your boss backstabs you or mistreats you. You deserve respect, and no one should humiliate you like that.

do not stay to deal with a backstabbing boss at work

 

Moreover, the person responsible for it has to pay for his actions. If you take the necessary precautions and act accordingly, you can eliminate someone like your boss.

Do not let him break your willpower. You fought for what you got in life; it is time to fight against people like him.

Conclusion:

Dealing with a backstabbing boss is tough. It requires time and standing up for yourself.

Overcoming obstacles is crucial, but standing against such negativity is rewarding. Once you prove your case, the satisfaction is immense.

Confront your boss with your evidence and ask about their actions. If HR doesn’t help, Find new jobs that are worth your talent.

Facing a backstabbing boss is challenging, but here’s a helpful guide if you find yourself in this situation.

Last Updated on 2 months by Usama Ali

Shahzaib Arshad
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