#39: Bad Boss? 8 Helpful Ways To Stay Professional And ‘Manage Up’

Do you have a boss who’s difficult to deal with? Ever feel frustrated, unappreciated or question whether you should just quit? 

If so, you’re not alone -- and that's exactly what we're diving into on today’s podcast. 

It’s often said people leave managers, not jobs. And it’s understandable. A bad boss can drain your motivation, impact your performance -- and even leave you questioning whether you’re in the right role.

But before you move on, it’s important to consider how YOU can build a better relationship with your boss. Because if you don't address the REAL issues, you’ll likely face the same challenges somewhere else.

In my coaching work, I hear stories of leaders dealing with difficult personalities, conflicting leadership styles -- and at times, downright bad behaviour.

Despite the challenges, dealing with a difficult boss can be an opportunity to develop your own leadership skills, build resilience and learn how to self-manage.

One of the most valuable skills you can learn as a leader, is the art of ‘managing up.’ Yet while there’s plenty of advice about how to lead your own team, what’s rarely discussed is how to manage upwards to the person you report to. 

While you can’t control your boss’s behaviour, you get to choose how to RESPOND to it. As a leader, it’s critical to take responsibility for HOW you’re managed and proactively build a stronger relationship with your manager. 

In today’s episode, I’ll be sharing eight powerful strategies to help you confidently ‘manage up’ and take back control of your career.

You'll learn:

• How understanding your boss’s behaviour and working style allows you to adapt your approach -- and manage up with more ease and influence
• Why taking responsibility for how YOU lead and communicate helps you stay in control, even in the toughest environments
• A constructive way to approach difficult conversations, so you protect the relationship with your manager and create meaningful change
• Smart solutions to common ‘bad boss’ behaviours, so you take ownership of the situation instead of waiting for change
• How to decide whether to stay or go -- and practical steps to stay engaged or minimise risk before you make a move

So hit play NOW -- and let’s dive in!

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LINKS:
Ready to manage up and take back control of your career? Check out the Ignite Your Career program for high-achievers who want to take ownership of their careers with clarity, confidence and a strategic plan.

If you’re interested in working together, I invite you to book a free call with me.

Learn more about my services for individuals and organisations at staceyback.com or connect with me on LinkedIn or Instagram.