by M.A. Dal Cero

Created on: May 10, 2009   Last Updated: August 12, 2009

There are several types of less-than-ideal bosses, but the back-stabber boss is perhaps one of the very worst. These are the bosses who are typically kind to your face, but the moment your back is turned, the trouble begins. The back-stabber boss seemingly delights in gossip, disparaging remarks, and the betrayal of trust. He or she speaks negatively about you to your coworkers, tells others your personal information, and might even concoct outright lies. This sort of boss engages in behaviors that cut right to the very core of our beings, and that can cause us deep emotional harm. How, then, do you work for someone like this?

First and foremost, no matter how tempting it might be, under no circumstances should you allow yourself to be brought down to your back-stabbing boss's level. This can be difficult, but it is in your best interest to simply do your job to the utmost of your ability on a daily basis, and to try to mind your own business. You might have to summon all of your strength in order to keep from practicing similar behaviors in retaliation, but you will feel far better about yourself if you refrain from doing so. Furthermore, the consequences of entering into spreading gossip and the like about your boss could cost you your job. Most people cannot afford for that to happen, so if the situation becomes intolerable and is affecting your physical and mental health, then quietly start searching for a better employment opportunity instead of placing yourself in the position of being fired.

Also, it is essential to remember that you have every right to confront your boss, in a professional manner, regarding his or her behavior. This might or might not prove successful, but it will prevent you from feeling like someone who can be mercilessly trampled on emotionally. Further, depending on the boss, you will either reach an understanding that stops the back-stabbing altogether, or he or she might use the confrontation against you, which will certainly make matters worse. Therefore, you will have to decide whether or not you want to take the risk.

It is also important to keep in mind that the workplace is not always the best location for sharing intimate details about your life. Those who do often find that this gives back-stabbing bosses all the ammunition they need to create difficulties for certain employees. Therefore, it is always wise to choose your friends carefully in your place of employment, and to keep your private life private. Doing so will not adversely effect you, as long as you remain courteous and kind with your co-workers and your boss. It is also helpful to remember that even if you have the worst boss on the planet, he or she still deserves a level of respect. You are certainly not obligated to like your boss, but remaining respectful and professional, despite the back-stabbing, can only be beneficial in the long run.

Back-stabbing bosses can, and often do, exist in many types of work environments and professions. However, the main purpose of having a job is, most importantly, to like what it is that you do. Then, to do your job well, and finally, to receive a paycheck for your time and effort. Unfortunately, difficult bosses sometimes seem to be the rule rather than the exception. Nevertheless, when you are able to deal with a person such as this in a healthy manner, you are free to enjoy your work during the hours that you are there, and to fully delight in the other aspects of your life when you are not.

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