Feeling stuck in a boss battle at the last level of a game can feel awfully like being stuck with a horrible boss in your career. Such has been the case ever since the invention of the steam engine and the roll-out of managers to oversee massive factories during the industrial revolution. When we look around us, we see we are surrounded by bad managers making terrible decisions that can destroy our motivation and drive to achieve. However, when reflecting on their actions we often ask ourselves, "Why are they behaving this way?" or "What might I have done if I was the manager instead of them?". These questions and many more help us develop very important skills that propel our capabilities at work and boost our performance in ways we do not tend to notice until we move on. Contrary to the conventional effect of working with bad managers, below are some skills that are greatly improved by the presence of a subpar manager in your workplace.
Negotiating like your career depends on it
One of the perks of having a bad manager is that they help us hone our negotiation skills. When you find yourself in a sticky situation or trying to navigate a challenging conversation, you learn how to express your ideas tactfully, persuasively, and with finesse.
When everything is a problem with your boss, even the silliest matters become a negotiation. Asking for leave, requesting a budget overdraft, or debating your workload becomes a high stake "hostage situation" with your boss. This helps develop the capability to think on your feet and find alternative approaches that lead to successful results, boosting your ability to negotiate with challenging characters.
In my career, I have had to walk on eggshells and defy ridiculous odds to get a single day's leave approved by my manager. This gave me a huge advantage in my career as I was able to negotiate much more challenging deals with my clients easily and get results quicker using a more eloquent approach to the subject at hand.
Learning to lean on your better judgment
When faced with unclear directions, we become masters of prioritization and adaptability. We learn to stay on top of our game and deliver outstanding results.
Unclear directions from a bad manager can often leave us feeling lost and unsure about the tasks at hand. However, this challenge presents an opportunity to develop our organization and self-management skills. In such situations, we learn to take control of our work and become more proactive in organizing our tasks.
To overcome the ambiguity, we develop a keen sense of prioritization. We carefully evaluate the available information, assess the importance and urgency of each task, and make informed decisions on how to allocate our time and resources effectively. By doing so, we ensure that we are focusing on the most critical aspects of our work and delivering impactful results.
Developing tougher skin to adapt & overcome
Navigating challenging managerial dynamics requires resilience and adaptability. Bad managers often present obstacles, conflicting objectives, and unclear directions. However, these circumstances can foster your ability to adapt to change and find creative solutions.
Through perseverance and determination, you can develop resilience, which is an invaluable trait in today's dynamic work environment. By overcoming obstacles and adapting to adversity, you demonstrate your ability to handle challenging situations, making you an asset to future employers and opening doors to new career opportunities.
The wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher.” – Chinese Proverb
Defusing bombs with better conflict resolution
Interacting with a bad manager often involves navigating conflicts and dealing with poor communication. While such circumstances can be frustrating, they provide a unique opportunity to develop your conflict resolution and communication skills.
As you steer through disagreements, you can refine your ability to express your thoughts clearly, actively listen, and find common ground. These skills are highly valued in the workplace and can elevate your professional standing. Effective communication and conflict resolution are not only crucial for dealing with difficult managers but also for fostering positive relationships with colleagues and clients.
Polishing your perspective
Adversity has the potential to inspire greatness. Bad managers may generate frustration or dissatisfaction, but they can also ignite a fire within you to prove your capabilities and overcome obstacles. Channeling your negative experiences into motivation allows you to harness your full potential and exceed expectations.
By using the challenges posed by a bad manager as fuel for success, you can accomplish extraordinary feats. Your ability to thrive despite unfavorable circumstances will be recognized and rewarded, leading to accelerated career progression and increased job satisfaction.
In conclusion, the impact of bad managers on our careers is a multifaceted journey. While their negative influence can be challenging and frustrating, it is essential to recognize the hidden opportunities that lie within these experiences. By leveraging the adversities posed by bad managers, we can transform them into catalysts for personal and professional growth.
"He who fears the climb of a mountain shall forever live in the darkness of the pits"
#BadManagersCanStillBeGood #CareerGrowth #LessonsLearned #modernleadership
