When Your Boss is the Bully

   Yes, the bible is right!

I Peter 2:18-25   Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. 19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.

 

If we have faith, I certainly realize we can’t be double-minded and/or take matters into our own hands, but we must defend ourselves just long as we keep things in perspective, act calm and humble ourselves.

 

If, however, you find yourselves having to defend what is just and right, and if you have been unjustly portrayed as someone else, or lied upon, you may want to follow these steps:

Join a Union (you may need to speak to the legal team of your organization)
Let your boss realize you feel harassed. By doing so, they may “back off” for fear they are “getting in over their heads”
Whenever you meet with your boss behind closed doors, you may want to take a witness with you. Most people will not want any part of being your witness, but ensure them they do not have to say a word
If you cannot take a witness, take a tape recorder with you. Follow the law of your state if you choose to do this, however. In Texas, all one has to do is announce and/or alert the other party they are being taped. It isn’t wise to record someone without their knowledge.
Keep a journal, log, or notebook of all interventions, or conversations with your boss
Invest in dividers/tabs for your notebook. Have sections for the following: verbal interactions emails, and any written correspondences. Note dates, times, settings and any witnesses.
Keep two sets of your journal, log or notebook. The one kept at work may suddenly come up missing
Keep any and all records. You’d be surprised how emails will end up supporting you. NEVER get anything via verbal correspondence. Your boss will deny telling you anything.
Never share your thoughts, and/or actions with ANYONE. You’d be surprised who your friends are NOT during times like these.
Smile lots. Never let your boss realize they’re making you feel uncomfortable
Never insubordinate yourself.
Follow all rules and remain on your P’s and Q’s – Dot your I’s and cross your T’s. Your boss will look for ANYTHING to “ruffle your feathers” and cause you to lose your job.
Pray lots! God’s intervention is AWESOME!

 

Note: Your boss will do a great job of alienating you, so be prepared for becoming a loner. Even those who feel your boss is wrong will not want to associate with you for fear the same thing may happen to them – Sad, but true.

 

Note: Your boss is human and will fall short at times. When he/she keeps copies of their mishaps, make a copy of it and/or obtain (whatever it is) for your records.

 

At this point, your boss will be happy to “back off.” Your boss must treat, and give you the same respect as the other team members in your department. For example: If they give one team member flex time, you must be given flex time.