15 Reasons Why My Boss Is Hard On Me And How To Deal With It

Employee: My Boss Is Hard On Me! I work hard, but he’s never happy. What’s wrong?

That’s okay to feel. It happens to new folks or if your work isn’t quite there yet.

Key Takeaways:

• Your boss might be tough for a few reasons, like trying to get you to do your best, or maybe they need a better day.
• Some bosses help you improve, but others might complain a lot. Knowing the difference between helpful advice and too much pressure is good.
• Talk to your boss if you need clarification or if their behavior makes you work hard. You can both figure out a way to improve things.
• Standing up for yourself is okay if your boss is mean or rude. You can talk to HR or tell your boss directly.
• If things don’t improve, you might need to consider a different position in the company or even a new job altogether.
• No matter what, always be professional and do your best work.

15 Potential Reasons Why My Boss Is Hard On Me?

There might be a couple of reasons why your boss is being tough on you:

1. They May Be Trying To Motivate You:

Your boss might push you because they believe in you. They want to see you do your best work.

They might give you tougher tasks or ask you to work a little harder. This can be tricky but try to see it as a good thing.

It means your boss thinks your work is important and wants you to succeed.

The key is to figure out what works for YOU. Talk to your boss if their way isn’t helping. Talking things through is important at work.

2. They Could Be Having A Bad Day:

Everyone gets grumpy sometimes. When someone you know acts mean, they might just be having a bad day.

Your boss might not always yell at you, but today they seem cranky. Maybe something else is bothering them.

Don’t get upset! Maybe you can help make their day better.

For example, you could offer extra work or take on a new project.

3. They Might Be Under A Lot Of Pressure:

Your boss might be grumpy because of their own boss or company problems. This doesn’t make it okay but try to understand.

Talk to someone else at work if their stress is getting to you.

They might give you some insight into what’s happening and how to deal with it.

4. They Could Be Jealous Of You:

Your boss might be jealous, feel threatened, or want your promotion. It’s not okay for them to act that way.

Here’s what you can do: Be nice to your boss. If you think your boss is jealous of you, try to build a positive relationship with them.

Say good things about their work and offer to help them on projects. Show them you’re on the same team, not against them.

5. They Could Be Trying To Teach You A Lesson:

Your boss might be tough because they want to help you improve.

Maybe they think you’re not working hard enough, or maybe you made a mistake, and they’re showing you what happens.

No matter the reason, try to learn from what they say. See it as constructive feedback and use it to do your job better.

If you’re unsure why they’re being strict, talk to them. It’s always best to chat with your boss about any problems.

6. You Might Be Making Mistakes:

Making mistakes happens, but your boss might correct you more because they believe in you and want you to learn.

• This is frustrating, but it’s a good thing!
• Talk to your boss about your mistakes. They can help you improve and avoid them in the future.
• If you’re unsure why you’re messing up, ask your boss for help.

7. You Might Not Be Meeting Their Expectations:

Bosses don’t like it when you miss deadlines or goals a lot.

This can make them mad and question your work ethic and commitment to the job.

To avoid this, talk to your boss and set realistic expectations. Everyone will know what to expect, and there will be no surprises.

8. That Might Be Just Their Personality:

Your boss might just be strict because that’s how they are. Some folks are like that, wanting things done perfectly.

It doesn’t mean they’re being mean, but it might mean you need to try a little harder to make them happy.

The best way to do that is always to do your best work. Be on time, meet your deadlines, and even try doing extra things to help.

9. They Might Be Testing You:

The boss might be giving you a hard time on purpose. They want to see if you can handle pressure or react to criticism. 

You’ll show them you’re a great worker if you can do this.

So next time your boss seems tough, try to relax and show them your best skills.

10. They May Be Having Personal Problems:

Personal problems can affect a person’s work. If your boss is going through a tough time, it could be why they’re taking it out on you.

Stuff happens, and it’s likely not your fault. You don’t have to solve everyone’s problems. If their actions worry you, talk to them.

Let them know that you’re there if they need to talk. And offer your help if they need it.

11. They Want To Fire You Soon:

Your boss might be tough, but that doesn’t always mean they’re trying to fire you. There could be other reasons.

Maybe they’re just looking for a reason to fire you, or they may make things so unpleasant that you quit.

If this is true, starting looking for a new job is a good idea. Also, please record your boss’s behavior in case you need it later.

12. It’s All Power Trip:

Some bosses just love being in control. They might be mean because they want to show they’re the boss.

Try to ignore their behavior and focus on your own work. Don’t let them get you down.

13. HR Asked Them To:

Is the boss suddenly strict? Could be a few things:

• HR might have talked to them.
• Company rules might have changed.
• Someone made a complaint about your boss being too easygoing.

No matter the reason, HR likely has a good reason for the change.

14. They Want You To Leave Their Department:

Your boss might let people go, even if it’s not your fault. 

This could be because they manage many teams or want to save money.

Or maybe they’re just trying to save money by downsizing. Whatever the reason, it’s probably nothing personal.

 Here’s what you can do:

• Ask to move to a different team.
• Start looking for a new job.

15. They Want You To Quit:

Your boss might be hinting they want you to leave.

Maybe they don’t like your work or how you fit in with the team. Perhaps they think you will fail in the long run.

You could switch to a different department for a fresh start. Or quit if nothing is working out.

When To Take A Stand For Yourself?

Your boss shouldn’t be mean or say rude things (verbally abusive). 

If they do or say things that make you uncomfortable (inappropriate comments), it’s okay to tell them to stop.

You can talk to someone in charge of work problems (HR) or tell your boss yourself.

It’s your decision, but feel free to speak up if someone treats you badly!

Conclusion:

Your boss might be grumpy lately. They might be stressed about something.

Maybe they want you to find a new job. They might like being in charge a bit too much.

No matter the reason, Don’t let it get to you.

Talk to someone in HR if things are really bad. If it’s really bad, you can look for a new job.

If your boss isn’t treating you right, speak up for yourself, but stay calm and keep doing your job well.

Last Updated on 6 months by Usama Ali