by Gabby Bugwadia

Created on: June 05, 2010   Last Updated: June 07, 2010

In today's uncertain economic times, with severe downsizing of companies and increasing job-cuts, the worst type of boss syndrome has escalated.  As a result, most bosses tend to be rigid and demanding control freaks, sometimes having the least experience in motivating the employees to pool in their best efforts.

There is a continual pressure to perform and get results at any price. This has become the norm in the corporate circles. Today, many people in the work force have to cope up with these problematic bosses at one time or the other. Bosses tend to have a recognizable *modus operandi*- manifesting certain characteristic traits.

Let us examine some of these focal traits latent in the worst type of bosses and how to deal with them:

* Bully

The bully kind of a boss is a control freak; he is egotistical and thrives when his subordinates are fearful of him. He tends to bully them around with his overbearing behavior. In such a scenario, it's best to deal with the situation quickly. The right approach would be to match the boss's behavior. For example, when the boss raises his voice or demonstrates an outburst of anger or tantrum, make sure to mete out a similar confrontation in return.

Standing up to a bully often works. Eventually, the boss will back down and learn to treat the employee grudgingly with respect. It's best to nip it in the bud right then and there.

* Too friendly

Beware of the boss who acts too friendly. Exercise caution if this kind of boss openly shows undue interest in your private life. Be wary of any ulterior motives he might display. Keep your distance-especially when he gets too personal by asking you on a date, a late night show or invites you over to his home. Avoid encouraging his behavior and do not hesitate to let him know that you are not interested.

In such a scenario, it would be advisable to set limits to one's availability before the problem escalates and invades one's privacy.

* Workaholic

The workaholic boss often makes one's life hell by invading the employee's personal time.  He makes it impossible to separate one's home life from the office. It's safest to discuss the problem openly with this kind of boss and let him know that you have personal responsibilities that are as important as meeting deadlines at work.

It would be wise to insist on leaving the workplace at a set time each day. If the workaholic boss responds angrily to this stance, all one can do is to simply assure him that any work or project on hand

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