Transcript of the live chat with Josey Joseph, VP & Head HR, FINO (Financial Inclusion Network & Operations Ltd) on the topic 'How to deal with a bad boss'

Rahul: How can one deal with a bad boss?
joseyjoseph: The term bad depends on the individual's needs, the manager's skill and the circumstances. When we as an individual look at it, we approach as what is there for me and not what organisation wants from us. The moment we change our approach, we may find the boss is not bad at all. When bosses become tough, demanding and pushy, we feel our boss is not reasonable. In such a scenario, my suggestion would be to talk to your boss – tell your boss what you need in terms of direction, feedback and support.

Divya: Hello Sir, can we consider an incompetent boss a bad boss?
joseyjoseph: Incompetency may be a perception. Many a times, people who are new to the role or organisation may take time to align with the organisation's needs. This at times may lead to the perception of them being incompetent. However, I would recommend that we respect our bosses with the belief they must have deserved / earned that role. My advise hence shall be not to label them as incompetent. Try to engage, share your knowledge and your discomforts too.

Malaika: Hi Josey there are times that are bosses are not approachable to even hear us out how do we deal with a situation like this?
joseyjoseph: I have seen that it works in most situations. Even unapproachable bosses usually have some people they work well with. Approach one of those people and learn from them. If possible, convey your thoughts through them.

Neville:  Hi Josey, It's a common know fact that people don't quit organisation, but their bosses. How do you think we need to percieve this?
joseyjoseph: I believe, if we have a concern we should voice it in an appropriate forum. Our approach should be to organisation centric and HR could play a role here.

Vignesh: Hi Josey, I feel that the term "boss" itself is a bit outdated. There are lot of changes in nomenclature. Some people call HR as Talent Mgt. Purchase is called as Strategic Sourcing. Then why do we insist on using a word like boss?
joseyjoseph: The term 'boss' may change from organisation to organisation. Over here we are referring to a leader who directs us towards a common organisational goal. In achieving that goal, HR is entrusted with the responsibility to align / engage various stakeholder. Thus, HR plays a significant role.

Divya: How should one manage to be in the company if his/her immediate boss does not support in terms of motivating,appreciation,timely feedback?
joseyjoseph: In my experience I have seen, in numerous such occasions, where there is a conflict between boss and a team member, a proper conflict resolution undertaken, eases the conflict. The approach differs from organisation to organisation. Before you go attacking your boss, examine your own performance and ask yourself if you are doing everything right. Get opinions from other colleagues whom your boss may be appreciating, about your performance and see if there is any change required from your end. Be open in your approach, I am sure it works.

rav: Official environment depends much on a boss attitudes towards employee, and we find it very difficult to match with boss high expectations, so how to balance with these kind of issues?
joseyjoseph: Expectations mismatch is a cause for such conflicts. Conflicts usually occurs when manager demands the work differently – Instead of waiting for their criticism, take a proactive approach and be absolutely clear from the very beginning on how your boss wants things to be done so that there is no miscommunication. In short, communication is the key to managing expectations.

Vignesh: Agree that HR plays a key role but it also depends on organisational framework and the role of HR within the framework, unfortunately, if such a conflict does go to HR, there is a risk of this being perceived negatively. things like 360 degree feedback do help only if the boss is willing to lend an ear to what HR is saying, if it is only going to be "my way or high way" then things can get nasty, isn't it?
joseyjoseph: No Vignesh, I have a disagreement, it is a perception that one would be penalised. The key would be communicating your concerns properly and the approach described by you would only work in the short term.

Param: Hello sir, from the perspective of any fresher/newcomer who has just stepped into the professional world, what should be the image/qualities of an ideal boss? 
joseyjoseph: Param, go with an open mind. As a beginner, the focus should be learning from your seniors. Go with an approach that everyone will hhelp you learn and grow.

Vinu: I had an experience where my manager was changed due to me shifting the team - my performance in the previous team was very good - but i failed to put the same in my appraisal data; though my previous manager had put it - the new manager was not ready to give me a god rating saying that i didnt rate myself - how to deal with such situations?
joseyjoseph: Vinu, performance evaluations are for specific periods. So, if you feel you have not been evaluated fairly during any particular period, I suggest that you take this up with the appropriate authority which could be HR or a level higher. This should be tried only if you are unable to convince your current reporting manager. My advise would be that you go with facts and data supporting your achievements/efforts.

Rahul: I had a very bad experience with my boss....whenever I tried communicating with him he never responded and there was this big gap in communication. Whenever i tried to communicate with him he used to ignore me and never gave me feedbacks which cause me lot of problem. please if you can give me advise on how to cope with this kind of situation.
joseyjoseph: As advised earlier in this chat, even unapproachable bosses usually have some team members they work well with. Try to learn / understand from them on what they did differently.