How do you deal with a boss who operates like a dictator?

Question

She micromanages, sets unrealistic deadlines, is an annoying perfectionist and is not interested in feedback or opinions. It's either her way or the highway.

I hate female bosses. Give me a male boss any day.

P.S. Yes I am female.

Flower Girl and Steven 25t, either you two are annoying dictators yourselves, or you're used to this extremely poor management style. That's the worst advice you've given, and I'm not taking it.

Dear Yoak,

Yes she is new, and I honestly prefer a boss like yours any day over mine. It's much less stress to deal with.

Answer 1

Hi Serenghetti,

This situation most likely will not improve. Micromanagers seldom release any responsibility, or credit, to anyone else. They typically prefer their own "way" and are inflexible. Whether they be male or female.

If your company offers an empolyee retreat, gathering outside of work, or an opportunity arises where you can mingle with and observe her - away from the office - take advantage of it. See if her overall personality matches her office persona. It could be she is making a strong first impression, and once she evaluates how employees respond to and respect her - she may taper it off a bit.

Is she new? Trying to make an impression? Has ownership decided to "crack down" to curb some employee behavior?

If you are reacting this way, it is best if you start networking and searching for new employment, outside the company.

I wish there were some way to trade bosses with you. Mine makes himself 6 cups of cocoa a day, putters around here in a complete daze. I swear he would never bother you, or micro manage any task.

Good luck to you ~

Answer 2

That's tough. I guess I would just let her know that I can do a better job if I'm left alone to work through it myself. Of course this may not go over well with her. But maybe mention that you will check in with her to get feed back. You can set up appointments to meet about it. This way she still gets her say, but you have time to relax in between. I would also be up front about the deadlines. I personally would say if you want it done well, I need more time and give her a realistic date.

On a side note please don't judge female bosses by her. I've had some very good female bosses. They can be good or bad, just like a male boss.

Answer 3

Unfortunately, there are many types of bosses in this world. There is not much you can do, but to either transfer groups or find a job with a different company. If you are looking for a new job it is important to ask a perspective manager, what kind of manager are you? You now know what kind of manager you do not like.
There are some managers, who manage by walking around (they just walk around and watch what everyone is doing), there are others who trust their employees and really don't bother them unless they need to. There are some like you mentioned they need to have their nose in everything.

Sometimes in these situations it is best just to play up to their ego.

Answer 4

You either have to deal with her or leave. I've been in your shoes before and only you know what is the right thing to do for yourself. I have dealt with it in different ways at different times.

And yes, I agree - give me a male boss any day over a female one!! Female bosses are the WORST! I'd never work for a female again!

Answer 5

deal boss operates dictator

Answer 6

You're in a difficult situation. I've been there, done that and bought the tshirt. My advice is as follows. She may not know that is how she is perceived, so, book a conference room and in a business like way, tell her how you feel and how you would like to work with her - offer solutions. I would also document your meeting. Here is another option. Try and win her over by asking her advice and anything. People love to be asked for their advice. Lastly, hang in there. Most likely she treats others the same way and eventually it will catch up with her. Good luck.

Answer 7

Two women in the kitchen have a difficult time producing a good meal. Sounds like your boss is a typical creator unable to live up to their own standards, thats why they employ others. And the job is a sure way to rub the nerve raw.

Answer 8

I am a manager and a female boss. Plus, I have had the boss you describe. You have choices to make. I would look for opportunities to move out of the position. She doesn't have manager skills. Please don't lump all female managers in one category! I work hard to make my employees workplace fun and keep them feeling empowered.

Answer 9

Been there done that! I fired mine. Yep, just quit. Of course I had another line of work lined up before I left. But my was unappreciative and really swang her butt when she walked. Made me ill. She has actually been promoted twice since I left. Go figure. lol

Answer 10

she is boss. if you don't like it get another job.