How do you be towards an Aggressive kind of boss?

[LittleArtist]

Hey guys..... so Im curious, how do be at wrok, if you have an aggressive boss...
Im confused!

They are the boss after all right, but at the same time, we're still people nad have our right too yeah, so where does the fine line begin and end...


When's it okay to speak up do something, and when is it best to not....keep on the low?

Also, How do you be in general with them so tehy know your not a push over, passive, but also not too come across too strong by doing this, or stern....you want to show them some positivity about you, but that not meaning they can push you over.... you know happy humorous but assertive....
How do I gan this , learn this......any insight books etc?

Thankkkks..

[learnalifetime]

Aggressive as in talk or physical?

I had a boss once that was very aggressive in his talking, trying to force you in a corner by shouting at you.
What I did was keep very relaxed, I never raised my voice even once. I just sat there, with a straight back, arms open, very confident.

He couldn't stand it... After a while he changed lowered his voice and sad down. I won..
Later that week I quit my job

If you stay relaxed and confident, and never ever raise your voice, they will eventually calm down I guess...

[Curious cat]

Originally Posted by LittleArtist

They are the boss after all right, but at the same time, we're still people nad have our right too yeah, so where does the fine line begin and end.

What rights do you mean specifically? If they are physically or sexually harassing you, or verbally abusive toward you, then yes, you have rights to not be treated this way. Most companies would have HR Codes of Conduct for you to read if you are unclear if your manager is breaking those codes.

If it's your feelings you are talking about then it might be a hard line to draw as staff would be expected to remain professional inspite of personality clashes.

Originally Posted by LittleArtist

When's it okay to speak up do something, and when is it best to not....keep on the low?

I would say anything that compromises company protocol or procedure, then certainly raise it. If it's to do with their personality, i would personally not raise it.

Originally Posted by LittleArtist

Also, How do you be in general with them so tehy know your not a push over, passive, but also not too come across too strong by doing this, or stern....you want to show them some positivity about you, but that not meaning they can push you over.... you know happy humorous but assertive....

.

Be confident; in your job performance and in who you are. Keep calm in your communication, try not to 'lose it' even when you feel like your boss was harsh. If you must assert your 'rights', keep it professional and don't make it personal.

I find after work socialising helps break the ice after a stressful week. I don't mean a one on one date, but together as a group of colleagues. This would be a great opportunity for you to showcase your humour

[peloton]

People probably consider me an aggressive boss. I never yell at anyone but I can combative around ideas I believe in and am not afraid of confrontation.

Effective ways to deal with me are:

* Communicate briefly and get to the point. I am not the most patient person and get irritated when people spend a long time getting to the point.

* Be clear about expectations. Say things like "I am going to do X, Y, and Z. Is that correct?"

* Show your competence and independence. Don't make me tell you what to do.

For better or worse, you have to be ready for:

* Blunt and demanding approach. At the end of the day I don't care if you like me as long as I get the result I want.

* Lack of empathy and sensitivity. It's just not at the top of my mind.

[chadcharlie]

Originally Posted by peloton

People probably consider me an aggressive boss. I never yell at anyone but I can combative around ideas I believe in and am not afraid of confrontation.

Effective ways to deal with me are:

* Communicate briefly and get to the point. I am not the most patient person and get irritated when people spend a long time getting to the point.

* Be clear about expectations. Say things like "I am going to do X, Y, and Z. Is that correct?"

* Show your competence and independence. Don't make me tell you what to do.

For better or worse, you have to be ready for:

* Blunt and demanding approach. At the end of the day I don't care if you like me as long as I get the result I want.

* Lack of empathy and sensitivity. It's just not at the top of my mind.

I agree with this reply. From principle, I recommend always being direct, and carrying yourself with dignity and respect. That's how I deal with "agressive" bosses, and I've been in a military service for 11.5 years now! I'm an E6, and I've been one for a while, so I get some wiggle room there, but even when I'm talking with full bird 06's or E9's they get the same direct communication from me, and I never compromise my dignity.

Ultimately, as you pointed out, they are your "boss" so you have granted them a certain authority over you, and in the military that leads to what we call "Rogering Up," where sometimes you have to bite your tongue, say "Yes, Sir." and do what they asked, but self respect never has to flee you!

Lastly, exercise and smile more (not in a goofy creepy way). One boosts your confidence, and the other will influence people to talk to you differently.

[Apresto]

Maybe keeping your voice at normal volume is best. No boss wants a competition at yelling in his/her own office or workplace. If you manage to keep your voice normal for as much time possible it will eventually make your boss think why you're speaking so low or even better - ask the question, Am I speaking too loud?