Navigating Difficult Bosses: Dealing with Credit Theft and Growth Barriers

Dealing with a difficult boss, particularly one who steals your credit without offering opportunities for growth, can be a challenging and demotivating experience. However, understanding how to handle such situations can prevent your professional development from being hindered. Let's break down the key strategies and personal experiences that show how to navigate such circumstances.

Understanding the Initial Steps

When dealing with a difficult boss, the first step is often the most straightforward: performing your job efficiently and professionally without seeking unnecessary confrontation. The adage, "Don't give them a reason," rings true here. Showing up on time, doing your job to the best of your abilities, and maintaining a low profile can help prevent your boss from finding reasons to criticize you or take credit for your work.

Company Policies and Human Resources

Based on the severity of the situation, you may need to involve company policies and human resources. Documenting all incidents where your boss steals credit or hinders your growth is crucial. These records can serve as evidence when discussing these issues with HR or when other company policies are applied. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Document everything: Record dates, times, and specific incidents where your boss takes credit. Stay professional: Address these issues in a calm and professional manner. Provide concrete examples of instances where you supported your boss's decisions or ideas, yet the credit was later claimed. Seek HR assistance: Use company policies to your advantage. For instance, policies on promotion, recognition, and work evaluations can be used to argue your case.

Personal Experience: Dealing with Don

Early in my career, I had a boss named Don, who was prone to explosive outbursts: any mistake or deviation from his preferred methods would trigger a fierce reaction. One day, Don complained about the sequence of work on the roofs, leading to a memorable incident.

Confronting and Standing Up for Yourself

Upon discovering that the roofers had worked outside the assigned sequence due to a framing inspection breach by the building inspector, Don lost his temper and raised his voice. In a rare display of defiance, I met his aggressive stance with counter-intimidation: my palm was inches from his nose, and I shouted, "Don, would you shut up for just one minute!"

After a moment of shock, Don responded with "You are fired! Fired! Fired." However, his anger did not translate into immediate action as he called me at seven in the evening, expressing his regret for the outburst. Knowing that he needed my expertise and that he lacked the skills to cover my position, I demurred, suggesting he pay me double and ensure I was no longer present on the site. Don agreed, and I worked for three weeks before leaving, ensuring the project was not compromised.

Finding Another Job

After leaving the project, I found a new job quickly, indicating that there are always opportunities in a booming market. This experience taught me that sometimes, standing up for your principles and needs can lead to better opportunities and a more balanced working environment.

Conclusion

Dealing with a difficult boss, especially one who steals your credit or obstructs your growth, requires a strategic approach. While company policies and human resources can provide a structured way to address these issues, personal resistance and leveraging your skills can sometimes be the key to overcoming such obstacles. By understanding the tools available and being prepared to stand your ground, you can navigate even the most challenging work environments successfully.