I MAY have to have showdown with a boss tomorrow. Should I keep my mouth shut and suck it up or tell truth?

Question

My boss' boss has scheduled a meeting to find out who's fault it is that a project is way behind. In truth it's mainly the boss' boss fault. Usually we just let him rave but I'm of a mind to, as calmly as possible, let him know it's his fault. Should I? I doubt I'd be fired but it would be a first for telling this guy he's wrong.

Answer 1

Tell him! If he cuts you lose you are better off. Start your own business and be your own boss. Just remember that if this same thing occurs again and the shoe is on the other foot listen to your employee. He might be right too.

Answer 2

I think it depends on whether or not you have any hard evidence that your boss's boss was holding up the project.

For example, if he didn't sign some purchase orders, say, you could answer the question with, "Well, the purchase orders weren't signed until Tuesday, so we didn't get the materials until later that day, and that put us 5 days behind." This way, you're not openly accusing him, but honestly giving him the reason why.

If it's something more nebulous, I hope you have an e-mail trail or something that can back you up. For example, if your boss' boss kept changing things and preventing the project from going to final, you'd need some sort of printable record of that to CYA.

Even then, that doesn't always help. I walked into such a meeting with an inch-thick file of how my boss had screwed me over right and left, and I got fired before I could even open it up and state my case. Sometimes, people want a fall guy, and if the boss has fingered you, it's almost impossible to change his mind.

Answer 3

Well.... barring the risk of getting fired.....

I would professionally and politely give him the FACTS.

'Yes, I realize that productivity has decreased and the sales are down...' .... 'Why, sir?'...

'Well sir, there was a slight misunderstanding with the... blah...blah....(the misunderstanding coming from your boss' boss)

or

'The project was on tract but had to be deviated when you requested..... blah blah'

The 2nd example is better because you're saying that it is he, directly, who delayed the project, but you're not being rude because you're phrasing it *politely*.

Be factual and concise. Look him in the eye when speaking, but don't look 'challenging'. This way, it shows assertiveness and confidence (in what you're saying) on your part.

It's ultimately your call how you want to handle it.

One last but IMPORTANT thing: Let your boss speak to HIS boss first. Take the lead from him. Your boss might try to shift blame to you.... don't shift it back unless it really was his fault. If it was your boss' boss, turn to your boss' boss and do the above example. This way, you're showing you're more mature and not doing the 'blame-game' and also show's the bigger boss that you're strong enough to speak-up.

You might be surprised by his reaction. Depending on what kind of personality he is, he may actually respect you more after the meeting!

PS... if the 'big boss' is normally an aszhole, then I would nix all this and do the 'head-nod' take the blame.... cause with this personality type, you can never win by pointing out their short-comings.

Answer 4

Hi friend,
My advise is to tell the truth. But do it in a non-accusing way, in a non-threatening way. Better yet, if you can arrange a one-on-one meeting with your boss. That way, he won't be put on the spot with some of your co-workers. Nobody wants to be embarassed and his natural reaction is that he will lash back at you. If you talk with him behind close door, he will be more open and receptive to your opinions..If he is a sensible boss, he should appreciate you because it's so rare to find an employee who is honest, straight-forward and not an ***-kisser. I believe everything will turn out for the best for you and your boss. Good luck.

Answer 5

Tell the truth, just make sure you have the references to back that up. Without proof, you are just making accusations (it's called heresay) and that has some serious consequences. You'll be looked down upon by your colleagues and coworkers for slandering your boss without proof, they'll all be worried that they're next.

I still think you should do it, especially if there's no risk of you losing your job. You have every right to say the truth.

Answer 6

Are you kidding me? You defintiely should tell. Even if i ignored all else, the fake rape story crosses the line. Lateness happens to a lot of us BUT there is no reason to lie. There is never a reason to lie. If i am running late (traffic, illness or other) i usually will try to call in to let them know i am on the way if i can. I am usually late if i am running late in the morning because i am sick, or if traffic is backed up on the road. But this happens to ALL of us. Most of my coworkers are as late as i am at times, but most of us are honest about it. As i mentioned, there is NEVER a reason to lie. Your friend sounds like she doesn't care about her job AND that fake rape story is over the top. Totally unnecessay and SO wrong. I am one for being understanding and compassionate, but to lie to the Boss like that and create such a grand tale is unnecessary. I would so rat her out or at least i would tell her that i am thinking about it. Serisouly, i would say to her, "I really feel like telling on you because that was so wrong." etc. Maybe then she will realise that lying is wrong? People actually feel badly for her and think she was very hurt ... i am certain those people will be PO'd every which way but Sunday when they find out she made the story up. *sighs* This is a tough situation. (Once, a long while ago at a job i worked, i had a friend/co-worker call out on an important work day claiming that she and her daughter were in a car accident. My boss was very upset (as were we all) come to find out, she lied and made it up so she wouldn't have to come in on the holiday.) Is that not crazy? I never told (as i didn't want to hurt the situation) but someone else did. We all had to pitch in and do her department on one of the busiest days of the year. Anyways, i am certain that you have been late a few times (hey, it happens to all of us) BUT ... i am sure you didn't make up a story about being attacked. That was just too low a blow. And she never should've gone there. You should definitely tell. If you don't, someone else will most likely. Sorry about the spot you're in in. Seriously, i know how it feels. xoxo ♥

Answer 7

the thing here is do you have evidence to support that allegation ? If you can demonstrate clearly that his actions have delayed the project then go for it , but expect to be fired .

Its really your Boss job to tell his Boss that he is getting in the way or otherwise delaying a project.

Answer 8

Present the facts calmly and objectively. Say things such as "the project got behind at this stage because such and such wasn't done". If they aren't aware who was responsible for getting it done, they will ask and you can answer in the same fashion-unless he's man enough to own up to it.
The main thing is remain unemotional and professional. Best of luck.

Answer 9

Tell em the truth

Answer 10

if you are sure that you can diplomatically let him know that it is your boss that is responsible, then do so. Have a folder with any backup (e-mails, memos, notes, etc.) just in case.