| |
 |
|
So, You Work For a Jerk...
6 Things You Can Do and 1 Thing You Shouldn't
(Part 2 of a 2 part series)
by Sheila Grosdidier, BS RVT MCP
VMC, Inc. Evergreen, CO 80439
Nothing compares to having a wonderful boss at work. But when that isn't possible,
it is time for the employee to take control of his/her life. In Part 1 of this 2
part article we discussed the first three steps that an employee can use to help
stay in control of themselves and the situation when they work for a jerk.
These included:
- See your boss as a person with the same day to day problems and personality
idiosyncrasies to deal with as everyone else on the team.
- Enhance your communication with your boss and the team to ensure that
messages are not miscommunicated.
- Focus on yourself. Radiate the traits you would like your boss to have.
In this second part of the series, we will look at 3 more options that you can
use to help yourself when you work for a jerk, and 1 thing that you should
not do.
- You are either part of the solution, or part of the problem.
"That's never going to work"; "How can we be expected to make call-backs to every
person after a surgery?"; "Don't worry, this idea will go away like the rest of
these bright ideas have in the past." Heard any of these comments at the last
meeting? You can decide that you will be a team player and work on sharing
positive comments instead of feeding the negativity monster that lives in all
practices.
Do rise to the occasion. Be a team player. Find out what your boss needs to
succeed and be a help, not a hindrance. Even if your boss does not change
his/her behavior, you will benefit from your pride in your job well done. Your
own well-being is important and your attitude may help the entire office
atmosphere.
- And, You Are?
Try to determine your boss's personality style. Are they task oriented or people
oriented? Morning person or night owl? Easy to upset or calm? What does your boss
prefer? Do they like face to face meetings or notes and emails? Do they prefer for
you to set up an appointment or is their door always open?
The closer your ideas, suggestions and projects connect to your boss's values, the
greater your chance of being successful. Don't be hesitant to discuss how your idea
or project is in this alignment and illustrate how it will support those values.
Perhaps realizing that s/he is a type A personality but most of the team is a
type B personality may help. Read about personality differences and how to make
them mesh. Explore the opportunity for the hospital team to take personality
profiles. Consider scheduling staff meetings where personality types are discussed.
- Last, you may need to keep your options open - this may include looking for a
different job.
Be pro-active -
a. Keep track of your accomplishments
b. Keep a file with all your letters of
appreciation from clients
c. Record all continuing education programs
you have completed
Keeping this file on yourself will help you to create an updated resume if
needed. It is also a reminder of what you have accomplished and your value.
Review this file when you need to feel good.
If leaving becomes the only alternative,
d. Leave on good terms
e. Remember that no one wants to hire someone who talks badly
about the place they are coming from
f. Take the high road - give appropriate notice
and keep a positive attitude while you are at work
There is one "Do Not"
Do not talk behind your boss's back (it will come back to haunt you). If
you need to talk with someone, find someone outside the clinic who will listen.
Even if there is no solution, being able to verbalize your frustrations will
make you feel better. And, who knows, this person you confide in may have some
suggestions of their own. They do know you, your work ethic and your personality
and they are removed from the situation.
You work for a jerk? You decide. A good opportunity to find another job or a
good opportunity to build your skills... you decide.
|
