A boss can be a source of inspiration and support. They can be someone who values your contributions and makes you feel like an integral part of the team.
And then there’s your boss. Stressed and driven by an identity complex, they often find ways that seem to make your life miserable.
Before you give your “two weeks” to HR, there are some steps you can take. These steps can help make your situation more tolerable.
1) Build relationships with your coworkers. Nothing brings people together more than a good traumatic experience! Seek out others in your department and meet regularly to vent.
2) Alter your workspace. Rearrange your desk. Use plug-in diffusers to add pleasant scents. Play comforting music at a low level. Alternatively, listen to it through your headphones. Making adjustments to create a soothing workspace can make it easier to deal with all that negativity.
3) Consider adjusting your work hours. Some companies are still retaining off-site staff. Ask around and see if you can get in on that. Coming in early and completing the bulk of your work before anyone else shows up is a great way to avoid the boss. Alternatively, get to know your nighttime cleaning staff by working late.
All these ideas are great. However, the number one best solution to resolving trouble with your boss is talking to them face-to-face. You deserve to be treated fairly. Show them you deserve respect by stepping forward and expressing your feelings. (And if they fire you, then celebrate the fact that you just dodged a bullet aimed right at your self-esteem!)
Kristen N Miller 