Dealing with Arrogant Bosses

It isn’t that hard to recognize arrogant bosses. They expose themselves eventually. They’re narcissists, for one. Their decisions are questionable and often can’t stand scrutiny. This is the reason why they’re arrogant. 
So here are some ways for you to deal with arrogant bosses. 

There’s a great chance you’ve met or worked with one of these. But, first, let me define what arrogant bosses are. These people are overconfident and overestimate their skills. They’re not as good as they think they are. Many of them are charismatic but are delusional. Sadly, they can fool many people.

Great leaders are confident because they are competent. They have a track record of their achievements and failures, which they learn from. They’re not shy of the latter. But, most importantly, they are humble.

Fortunately, it isn’t that hard to recognize arrogant bosses. They expose themselves eventually. They’re narcissists, for one. Their decisions are questionable and often can’t stand scrutiny. This is the reason why they’re arrogant. 

Consider the fact that they’re trying to compensate for what they lack. Here are some ways to deal with them. 

>> Never Question them in Public. 

An arrogant boss may be in a good mood but, it doesn’t mean they’ll be open to contradictory views in public. They always believe they’re right or have better ideas, even when wrong. They have inflated but fragile egos. Arrogant leaders feel threatened when criticized. So, avoid opposing them in front of others. It’s never productive. 

>> Talk to them in Private. 

If there’s danger ahead which they can’t see, call their attention in private. Try to enlighten them on why they should change course. Show the facts. If they stick to their decision, find others who can convince them. Organizations and nations have failed because of arrogant leaders. History is full of examples of these leaders that ruin everything.

>> Earn their Trust.

For instance, you’re stuck in your job and have no other place to go at the moment. Performing well at work is a sure way of getting noticed. If your arrogant boss realizes you make good decisions at work, they may turn to you for feedback. Arrogant leaders care for results too. They just can’t accept they’re not right all the time. It takes practice to give negative feedback. I suggest you read our blog on this.

>> Don’t be Fooled by Them. 

You can be swept by the crowd if you don’t remain steadfast in your beliefs. So, stick to what you think is right. It doesn’t matter if you’re alone. Be cautious and discerning. Leave or move to another department. Avoid being a tool of arrogant leaders. They’ll manipulate and use you if you allow them. You may have encountered these people before and discovered ways to deal with them. Try out the steps above if you haven’t. These worked for others.