Is the Boss a Bully or a Jerk?
Are They Mean-spirited Power Mongers or Just Rude, Clueless Oafs?
Oct 22, 2009
Bosses come in all shapes, sizes, experiences, and styles. Some bosses have a charismatic personality that draws others to them, while the behavior of other bosses leaves people wondering whether they are working for the right person. But is the boss just awkwardly inappropriate, or is he or she abusive and threatening? Workplace bullying is a serious offense that, in extreme cases, can lead to termination. Employees must determine into which category their bosses fall before deciding on what action to take next.
The Boss as the Jerk
The jerk bosses treat all of their employees consistently; but their communication, tone, and body language lack professionalism. They are not overtly threatening, but their inappropriate behavior may create an uncomfortable work environment. While they need to work on their demeanor and their interactions with others, they are not bullying and, judged solely on this behavior, do not require discipline.
Bosses of this type could receive communication training and, in some cases, be mentored through this particular challenge. The difficulty in identifying this type of boss is the subjective nature of the behavior. It may take time for employees to get relief if opinions of the boss differ.
The Boss as the Bully
The bosses who bully their subordinates use their position power to act irrationally and treat employees inconsistently. This type of boss may harass and embarrass an employee in a staff meeting or have some other public outburst that creates a hostile work environment for those who work for him or her.
Employees can report bullying bosses to their Human Resources department and expect the matter to be investigated further. Once reported, the Human Resources department has the obligation to resolve the issue in accordance with policy and to restore a safe workplace. This often involves terminating the boss’s employment if sufficient supporting evidence if found. Employees must understand that they have rights, and bullying bosses cannot unduly use their position against any employee.
Determining whether the boss is a bully or a jerk is not always an easy task. The subjective nature of interpersonal relationships means that many of the behaviors are exhibited by both types. The problem is compounded when employees believe that they cannot report their bosses as bullies for fear of losing their jobs.
This myth often delays any action that may be taken against the bully. In reality, any employee regardless of his or her position can be disciplined and/or terminated for bullying. Employees should rely on their Human Resources department to assist in identifying whether a boss’s behavior is menacing or merely inappropriate. If the boss is truly a bully, they can provide advice on the next steps for moving the process forward.
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