October 13, 2015 • Volume 6, Issue 21 • ISSN: 2154-3240

In This Issue

♦	Feature Article: Dealing With a Bad Boss
♦	Ask Amanda: Not knowing where I stand with my boss is stressing me out!
♦	Practical Tips: Apologize Completely

Dealing With a Bad Boss

Unfortunately, bad bosses are rampant in corporate workplaces. According to psychologist Robert Hogan, 75% of employees say that their boss is the worst part of their job. How can you minimize the stress a bad boss creates and develop new skills in the process? Consider these strategies for three of the most common bad behaviors.

Screamers
If your boss shows his displeasure by shouting, don’t react. Remain calm and don’t push back. When he’s in an emotional state, any response you make will be misunderstood and seen as resistance. Instead, wait it out and once he’s done, offer up a bit of good news.
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	Control your time or others will.

Practical Tips:
Apologize Completely

“I’m sorry if you were offended.” “I was late because of traffic.” “I’m sorry but the client called.” Guess what? None of these statements are actually apologies.

In the workplace, what often passes for an apology is actually admitting you’re responsible for your actions, and then justifying them. You’re saying, “Yes, I did this, but here’s why.” An apology should never include the words “if” or “but.”
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My boss is more interested in playing politics than in being a good manager. His opinion of me changes based on what is most important to whoever is in power at that moment. I am so stressed. I have to keep my job, what should I do? S.C., Chicago, IL

Your question tells me your thinking is very black and white (he’s either a good manager or political) and you’re in a very judgmental frame of mind (your boss is choosing wrongly based on your characterization). Your responsibility is to focus on doing your job to the best of your ability...
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Recommended Resources

Curious about Bad Boss stats? We have an infographic for that! Take a look at The Bad Boss Cost Infographic.

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About: Our Corporate Life LLC (OCL) is a company that offers a new system for reducing unnecessary workplace suffering caused by the organizational, interpersonal, and ethical issues of our time. It is founded on the belief that acting humanely and achieving business success are always compatible. Working with both companies and individuals, OCL helps create solutions that enable corporate employees at every level to optimize profits while thriving in the workplace.