Ever found yourself unable to tolerate a coworker? That bias likely influenced how you judged their work. Now, imagine the impact if your boss harbored similar feelings toward you.
When a boss has a bias—conscious or not—it can affect every aspect of your professional relationship. This could mean fewer opportunities for growth, uninteresting assignments, lack of recognition, or even decisions about your pay and job security. But how do you determine if their attitude stems from legitimate concerns about your work or a personal dislike?
Here are seven common signs and how to address them:
1. You’re Being Micromanaged
Your boss constantly checks your work, dictates minor details, and seems to lack confidence in your abilities.
What to Do:
- First, observe if this is their general management style or specific to you.
- Reflect on your performance: Have you made mistakes that justify their behavior? If so, focus on rebuilding trust.
- If the issue seems isolated, have a candid conversation to understand their concerns and propose alternative ways to keep them informed, such as regular updates or a trial of greater autonomy on a project.
2. You Never Receive Feedback
If your boss acknowledges others but never praises your efforts, it could indicate their dissatisfaction with you.
What to Do:
- Request feedback directly, asking about your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Start small, like debriefing a recent project, to gauge their perspective on your work.
3. Your Raise Requests Are Rejected Without Explanation
While budget constraints can justify denying a raise, a supportive boss will provide context and guidance on earning one in the future.
What to Do:
- Ask, “What would it take for me to earn a raise?” A boss who values you will offer clear steps for progression.
4. You Can’t Get Their Attention
Your manager frequently cancels meetings, ignores emails, and doesn’t prioritize your concerns.
What to Do:
- Determine if this behavior is directed at everyone or just you.
- If it’s the latter, discuss the importance of regular communication and suggest flexible scheduling options.
5. You’re Excluded from Important Meetings
You’re left out of discussions and decisions related to projects you’re involved in.
What to Do:
- Address the issue directly but diplomatically. For example, say, “I noticed I wasn’t included in the meeting on [project]. How can I ensure I’m part of these discussions moving forward?”
6. Your Work Is Constantly Criticized
If no effort seems to meet their standards, this could be a sign of deeper issues.
What to Do:
- Align expectations at the start of projects to minimize misunderstandings.
- Initiate a conversation about their concerns and ask for constructive feedback to improve.
- If the criticism persists without merit, it may be time to consider a new role.
7. They Don’t Care if You Leave
A boss who doesn’t value you won’t invest in retaining you, mentoring you, or offering growth opportunities.
What to Do:
- Recognize the limitations of staying in such a role. Lack of support can hinder your career progression, so consider planning your next move.
Final Thoughts
If these signs resonate with your experience, it’s crucial to evaluate your options. While some issues can be resolved through open communication, others may indicate it’s time to seek a workplace where you’re truly appreciated.
