Whether you like it or not, if you have a bad relationship with your boss, you have to fix it. Having a negative relationship does not serve your growth.
Let me add some context: There is a high chance that your boss’s bosses will take their word over yours. They will listen to their recommendations. They will support them in whatever decisions that they need to make, legal ones of course. That already puts you on the back foot. This can be weaponized too. So, it is best to stay on the safe side. Is it unfair? Yes. But acknowledging that it is unfair will not make it go away.
This option only works if you are in a company that has high growth potential for you and you do not want to let one person destroy it for you. Otherwise, just leave. With that said, here are the steps:
Step 1: Preparation
The preparation step is all about having a conversation with yourself. The conversation will go something like, “I am doing this for me and not for them”. Step 2 will make you understand why this conversation is so important.
Step 2: Ask the Magic Question
Walk into your bosses office, ask if you could please speak to them and then ask them this one question: “What can I do to make our relationship better?”. I can tell you right now; you will not like the answer. You will not like the attituded. You will not like the temperament. There is a high chance that you will be blamed. That step 1 becomes important to stop you from losing it and fighting back. Just think about the opportunity cost. Take this one on the chin. It is worth the opportunities that are ahead of you. The conversation will at least be open now.
Step 3: Do What Needs to be Done
If it is legal and it is within your power, then do it. They want you to admit you were wrong, cool. They want you to ask about their health, do it. But if they want to do “other things” with you, make you work outside your scope or need you to commit a crime, that is illegal. Do not do it. But let us assume it is not that. Just do it so that you have enough peace to network with other executives in the building and other managers. It is about strategy.
This plan does not mean you should not stand up for yourself. It does not mean you must be a pet or a walkover. It is all about strategy. Remember, this only works if it is withing your power.
Let me know what you think in the comments. Do not forget to drop a like.
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