How to deal with bad bosses - Robert Half

Media release
8 August 2011
How to deal with bad bosses
It’s no wonder bad bosses often make it to the big screen: it is a scenario many workers can
relate to. Research by leading finance and accounting recruiter, Robert Half, shows half (50
per cent) of New Zealand workers would look for opportunities elsewhere if they had some
conflict with their manager.
The survey also found 53 per cent of New Zealand finance and accounting professionals
would look for other opportunities elsewhere if a manager was not offering the opportunities
they thought they deserved, while 42 percent would contemplate a move if they were not
inspired by their manager. A further 34 per cent would also be attracted by a better
management structure elsewhere.
These results suggest that if businesses want to hold on to top performers, ensuring
managers’ leadership skills are up to scratch is a good place to start.
Robert Half New Zealand general manager, Megan Alexander, explains bad bosses aren’t
necessarily bad people, but they can certainly make work challenging for those who report to
them.
“Often people are promoted because they have impressive skills, but that doesn’t mean that
they are effective leaders. Friction between managers can stem from differing work styles.
Professionals who adapt their approach to their supervisor’s preferences may be able to
build stronger working relationships.”
Robert Half identifies five common types of challenging bosses and tips for working with
them:
Boss type
The micromanager has trouble delegating
tasks. When assigning a project, this boss tells
you exactly how, when and where to do it.
The poor communicator provides little or no
direction. Your assignments often have to be
completed at the last minute or redone
because goals and deadlines weren’t clearly
explained.
The bully wants to do things his or her way, or
no way at all. Bosses like this also tend to be
gruff with others and easily frustrated.
The saboteur undermines the efforts of others
Coping strategy
Trust is usually the issue here, so try to do
everything in your power to build it. Don’t miss
deadlines, pay attention to details and keep
your manager apprised of all the steps you’ve
taken to ensure quality work.
Diplomatically point out that by providing more
information upfront, you’ll both avoid undue
stress and save time in the long run. Seek
clarification when confused and arrange regular
check-ins on projects.
Stand up for yourself. The next time your
supervisor shoots down your proposal, for
example, calmly explain your rationale. Often,
this type of manager will relent when presented
with a voice of reason.
Make sure your contributions are more visible

and rarely recognises individuals for a job well
done. This supervisor takes credit for
employee ideas but places blame on others
when projects go awry.
The mixed bag is always a surprise. This
manager’s moods are typically unpredictable:
He or she may confide in you one day and turn
a cold shoulder the next.
to others, especially senior management, so
that your role isn’t overlooked. Get information
in writing from this person so you have a chain
of communications to refer to, if needed.
Try not to take this boss’s disposition
personally. A calm and composed demeanour
is best when dealing with this supervisor. When
this person is on edge, try to limit
communication unless a matter is urgent.
For more information checkout out our podcast on Dealing with a difficult boss.
Ends
Released on behalf of Robert Half Finance & Accounting by Goode PR, Auckland. For
more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Melissa Dobson of Goode PR, Auckland on +64 9 480 9948 or 021 389 559 or email
melissa@goodepr.co.nz
About the research
The Robert Half workplace survey questioned more than 1,600 finance, accounting, HR and
executive-level managers from four countries, including 521 from New Zealand. It was
carried out in August 2010.
About Robert Half International
Robert Half International Inc. (RHI) pioneered specialised staffing services and today is the
world’s leader in the field. Founded in 1948, the company is traded on the New York Stock
Exchange (symbol: RHI). Robert Half International again was named FORTUNE ®
magazine's "World's Most Admired Companies" list, ranking #1 in our industry in both
innovation and quality of services (March 21, 2011).
Robert Half New Zealand operates the divisions Robert Half Finance & Accounting, for
temporary and permanent finance professionals; Robert Half Management Resources, for
project financial professionals and Robert Half Technology, for high calibre technology
professionals.
There are more than 350 Robert Half International locations worldwide. Visit us today:
www.roberthalf.co.nz