Few Things Are More Destructive Than An Insecure Boss
Few things are more destructive to a career than a boss who is insecure.
Unfortunately, it is a near certainty that most people will encounter one or more such persons along the way. "The actions of an insecure boss will eventually create an insecure organization,
riddled with anxiety and indecision," says Ramon Greenwood, senior career
counselor at Common Sense At Work.com. "People will spend more time looking
over their shoulders than looking ahead. Good defenses become more important
than effective offenses." Seven Traits Of An Insecure Boss You will know your boss is suffering from an insecurity complex when he or she is
engaging in behavior highlighted by these seven such traits: 1. The boss insists on absolute control over everything in the department. He rules
with an iron hand, refusing to delegate any real authority. He doesn't trust anyone.
He has few allies. Those allies he does enlist are formed into a tight little clique
strongly obligated to his authority and dependent on it. They live an uncertain life
on a short leash. 2. The boss constantly interferes in the work of his staff. Second guesses are the
order of the day. 3. He constantly defends his position. Every question or hint of criticism is treated as
a challenge to his worth and authority. He doubts he has the respect of his
associates. Those who exhibit a mind of their own are under constant attack. 4. The insecure boss is most often an absolute perfectionist. He will climb the wall
when you make a mistake. But look out. When he fouls up, he will blame it on
someone else. He has to be right every time. 5. He will resist making decisions. This means endless studies and return trips to
the drawing boards. 6. He will frequently remind you who is boss. 7. He finds it next to impossible to laugh at himself, but he is quick to laugh at
others. SEVEN ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE There are no certain quick fixes, but there are seven steps that will help mitigate
the situation and advance your own interests. Actually, insecure bosses can offer
opportunities. 1. Be certain you are not contributing to your superior's low self-esteem. Do
everything you can to reassure him of your respect for his position and your
commitment to helping him do his job. 2. Shore him up at every opportunity. Learn where he feels most insecure--where
his hot buttons are--and make a special effort to be helpful in these areas. 3. When you have to challenge him, and surely you will from time to time, be certain
to do it in a positive way. Don't question his authority. Never challenge or criticize
the boss in the presence of others. 4. Never go around your insecure boss to deal directly with his boss without explicit
approval. Make sure he realizes that you clearly understand the hierarchical
relationships. You don't want to become an endangered species because you are
seen as questioning his judgement and appealing to higher authorities. 5. Always be sure he gets more than his fair share of credit for your good work. Stay
one step behind him when the limelight shines. 6. Find some of his good points and acknowledge them, publicly as well as privately.
Remember, your boss may be a pain in the neck to work with, but surely he must
have some redeeming features worthy of compliments. 7. Think of your own insecurities and what helps you deal with them. Apply what you
learn from this analysis to dealing with your insecure boss. Ramon Greenwood is former senior vice president of American Express; a
professional director for various businesses; a consultant; a published author of career related books and a syndicated column. Senior career counselor for http://www.CommonSenseAtWork.com
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