Working a 9 to 5 has its challenges—add a demanding boss who is hard to work for and you truly have a recipe for disaster. Giving your boss a piece of your mind could cost you your job, but it doesn’t mean that you have to sit down and take disrespect or bad behavior from your boss. Sometimes, you have to say no to unrealistic expectations or job duties that are clearly not under your job description.
As a former HR manager, I’ve seen my share of bosses who have treated their employees recklessly or without respect. It was at these times that saying no had to be done, PERIOD. It was never easy.
Here are 5 tips on how to say no to a demanding boss:
1. Restate expectations/needs
Your boss may not even understand how unrealistic their expectations are until they hear it. When your boss gives you something to do that isn’t doable or beyond the realm of reality, then restating their request can make them rethink their position. This doesn’t always have to be done in person, but can be clearly done via email or written memo. The words on the paper may jolt your boss back into reality and cause them to rethink their position. It is surely worth a try.
2. Redirect anger
Speaking to your boss when angry at their behavior or their requests usually will end up with you being reprimanded or worse. Redirect your anger and give yourself time to cool off before talking to your boss about the problem. Do understand, though, that the problem, whatever it is, will need to be addressed eventually. If you let it fester too long, hell is sure to ensue. Act accordingly.
3. Think before speaking
Before you insert your foot in your mouth, think before you speak. If your boss or superior is being condescending to you, being condescending in return does nothing but help fuel the problem. Before any confrontation or meeting, think out your recourse and your defense and the words you will use. Be logical, not emotional. And use examples and facts to back up your position. Being rational during these instances (even when your boss isn’t), is the best way to handle office issues.
4. Communicate other options
If your boss wants you to do something that isn’t realistic or you are unable to do, communicate other options. Most of the time, your boss doesn’t care HOW you do something, they just want it DONE. Have a plan of attack and be able to communicate it to your boss and your superior and be able to consistently communicate it. Chances are, your boss won’t deny you.
5. It’s OK to say no
A lot of people think you can’t say no to your boss, but doing so sometimes is necessary. Saying no to your boss may be the only way to resolve a problem or issue. And chances are, your boss has a boss, so if the problem is one that can’t be solved between the two of you, you may need to bring in the muscle of your HR department or even file a grievance to protect yourself from disciplinary action.
Demanding bosses are not easy to work with, but that doesn’t mean that they have the right to demean you or disrespect you in any way. Saying no to a demanding boss just may be what the situation needs to stop further issues. I hope these tips help you and your office dilemma.
Reason like this is why I no longer am employed by corporate america