CONFERENCE ROOM – So what do you do when the boss is being a boss in front of other bosses so he can show that he is the boss? It’s sometimes an ego thing, that some bosses need to show others that they have control over you. But sometimes the boss might not be entirely accurate, or worse, that he is completely wrong. What do you do?
1. Defend yourself: The first reaction might be that we want to defend ourselves. If we’ve done what was requested of us, but the boss said we haven’t done it or have done it completely wrong, then the instinct will tell us to fight back. Well, the boss is making us look bad in front of others, so how am I gonna work with these managers in the future when they think I am incompetent? But of course, defending ourselves could be something like “Mr. XYZ, I have actually done this correctly” or “No, that would be an incorrect statement, I did it already” or “Wrong, did you not check your Email or remember what I told you last time?” Do choose your words wisely :P
2. Just say OK: Sometimes being silent and not say a word could be the strategy we use. It doesn’t mean that we agree with what was said about us, but we are willing to submit and do whatever’s requested of us (again). Maybe it does show a little sign of weakness, but the boss might be happy with the attitude. Even if the boss finds out that he’s wrong later, he might really appreciate you not publicly disagreeing with him or pointing out his mistake.
3. Tell everyone he’s right: This, to be honest, is my least favorite option, but at times we have to do it. If the boss is really trying to build up his case or authority in this meeting, or in this team, being a good Robin might make the whole project more successful. Sometimes we just have to sacrifice ourselves for the good of the project. Of course, some people just like to kiss up, and it’s up to you.
4. Propose something else: Instead of the previous 3 replies, you can try proposing something more to help the project. Of course, you have to say something to reply to the boss’ request, but you can direct the attention to something else, so that you get more exposure for speaking up. Of course, this might tick off the boss for you trying to shine brighter than him…
We can also combine some of the above together to make things more smooth. My personal favorite is to say “OK, we briefly worked on that previously, but it’s good to have more modification to make it better. How about we do more, such as ….” This way you not only tell the others that you’ve done something the boss is asking for already, but also showing a good attitude to improve and make the project even better. Of course, it’s not a formula you can just plug in every time, but you get the point ^^
tell him to take off that hat!