by Toni Foyer

Created on: February 16, 2009

Fortunately in a majority of my positions, having to deal with a hostile boss was not a common event. But I had one job at a highly reputable staffing firm in which I had to deal with a manager that was confrontational on a daily basis. I was fooled I'd like to say.

My manager was the last person I had met with during the interviewing process and I found her professional, knowledgeable and quite welcoming. Needless to say, this person was all about filling her opened position and was not about to convey her true colors. This is typical with most managers while they interview candidates. The first day on the job I was eager to make a great impression with my manager and with my co-workers. However, the moment I made my first mistake, my manager was impatient and quite irritated. I soon learned that working with this individual would require great tolerance and humility.

I imagined a day that would run smooth without any mishaps or conflicts with my manager. However, those days only occurred when my boss took a vacation or sick day.

Yet, in the seven months I spent with this firm, I acquired some skills that I never thought I possessed. Here are a few ideas to utilize when a manager becomes unbearable.

1. Before saying a word to your manager, take a few minutes to think about the situation. Remember they're in the managerial role and you are not, so saying something in the heat of the moment could cost your dignity or even your job.

2. Agree with everything they say to you. By contradicting them will only escalate the argument and possibly cause your manager to write you up as being insubordinate. Yes, even if they're wrong.

3. Communicate with your manage about concerns you may have about your job or even ask for advice from them. By keeping the communication open, your manager may find themselves needed therefore, enhancing their ego. You may want to have this conversation behind closed doors after hours or before and stay at the office. If you're having problems with your manager, it's always best to keep it professional and not go outside the office.

4. Lastly, do not quit the job unless you have another offer. I have seen this scenario several times whether it's a temp or a co-worker that quits without any notice. That decision can be detrimental to your career. You need to stick it out as long as you can and if anything, you can tell your next employer you handle adversity extremely well.

These are only a few ideas to consider when working with a hostile manager. One last note, if you enjoy your job and the company, take the next step and go above your manager to get your grievances out so your career isn't jeopardized.

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