How to Work with a Passive-Aggressive Boss

Well-built communication is the key to creating a team that will break productivity records. However, this also works in reverse. Failure in communication causes a domino effect and affects all processes in the company, including leading to burnout of employees, and hence to staff turnover.

Very often, a passive-aggressive boss is to blame for communication breakdowns in the office. Polls in Russia showthat 57% of employees experience harsh treatment from management.

And this is a serious problem, because not everyone dares to risk their position and tell the bossthat he behaves incorrectly. For example, making snide comments, refusing to take responsibility, lying to employees, or otherwise expressing passive aggression.

There are several strategies that can help you work effectively with a passive-aggressive leader.

Ask uncomfortable questions

Some people are not even aware that they are being passive-aggressive. Perhaps your boss is one of these and believes that he is doing everything right, because such behavior has already become a habit for him.

In this case, uncomfortable questions will help. When you ask questions and ask for clarification, you force the manager to make decisions and take responsibility for them. For example, if you think you've got a very minor role in a new project, ask, “I'm not sure what task I should be doing. Can you explain more?"

When a person behaves passive-aggressively, he may not say something or use information against you. Difficult, uncomfortable questions are needed to avoid falling into a similar trap.

In addition, constantly asking for clarification or clarification will help the boss understand that he has a communication problem, and you can do your job well and rise to a new level.

Strive to earn trust

Passive-aggressive bosses especially need it and often seek it from their peers and employees. After all, they are still people with the same needs as everyone else.

With a passive-aggressive style of communication, people project their feelings and emotions onto the outside world. And when a person is led by self-doubt and fear, this is reflected in his actions. Most likely, the boss does not want to spoil your mood at all, he just feels bad himself. Subordinates generally rarely understand what is happening in the life of a leader.

Trust relationships in the team give him the support he needs, help him feel better and take a step back to reflect on his goals and actions and give up passive aggression.

Take responsibility

Most often, leaders are people of action. But not passive-aggressive bosses. Because of self-doubt and fear, it is difficult for them to take responsibility. And this has a devastating effect not only on employees, but also on the company, when decisions need to be made to develop and improve working conditions.

The scariest phrase a leader can say is "We've always done this" because it shows that he afraid of change. In fact, change is the only guarantee in life and business. They mean that a person or organization adapts to new challenges and creates effective solutions. If your boss hates change, he's probably passive aggressive as well.

The best way to deal with this problem is to take the initiative and take responsibility for the results. This will become an example for everyone else.

Be honest and take action

This will lay the groundwork for the changes you want to see in the workplace. After all, until you take action, nothing will change. Of course, it can be difficult to be honest and open about your opinion at work. But, no matter how scary it is, it is worth accepting this challenge. In the long run, your efforts will pay off.

Remember that the situation will not change overnight and everything takes time. Be patient, show its value for the company and keep moving forward.