'There is enough research to suggest that people do not quit jobs, they actually quit their manager' is how the recently published book, How to Survive the Boss (HarperCollins), opens
Kanika Singal
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'There is enough research to suggest that people do not quit jobs, they actually quit their manager' is how the recently published book, How to Survive the Boss (HarperCollins), opens. Written by Kanika Singal, a Yale-McKinsey alumna and CEO of business design lab NextLeap Advisory, it delves into her experience of interacting with managers in New York, San Francisco and New Delhi. The book serves as a guide to learn the art of managing bosses across workplaces - from large corporates and family-run companies to start-ups. 'Instead of focusing on performance and completion of tasks and duties, far too much energy is spent on managing the employee-boss equation,' she writes.
While books on this subject are readily available in the US, India is a different country, notes Singal. "We tend to stay in office longer, usually until the boss leaves. There is also high, sometimes unconditional, regard for hierarchy," explains Singal, adding, "Many of us don't know how to market ourselves."
She links a difficult boss-related workplace scenario to three possibilities. "You could be stuck with a bad manager, whose value system as a human being is something you cannot agree with," says Singal, suggesting that you invest time in knowing the boss before taking up a new job to be sure you can work together. "A bad manager relationship is when you and your boss don't have a liking for each other, but he is good with others," she says, adding that you may consider looking for another role in the same organisation with a different boss. If that doesn't seem likely, lingering on may not be worth it. "A bad manager situation, on the other hand, is when you and your boss are in a tough but temporary situation, leading him to react in some unusual ways," explains Singal. "It's good to remember that empathy stands you in good stead, and that you can get out of such situations."
While quitting is logical in situations that are beyond repair, in many instances, the idea of putting in one's papers may be an emotional response. Navigating the workplace maze could become easier if you know how different bosses work and how to manage them. We pick the five most common types from Singal's list of 17.
The Non-Promoting Manager
You have given the company your best. But while your peers have moved up the organisational hierarchy, your boss feels you are not yet ready for a bigger role.
Your strategy: If promotion seems unrealistic with your boss, consider looking for another opening within your company. Promotions also require lobbying in advance. If you have done exceptional work, it needs to be visible. Women, says Singal, are shy about blowing their own trumpet, which works against them. Upping your skills helps strengthen your case.
The Start-up Manager
You are in a high-energy set-up, in the company of intelligent and driven individuals. But you feel left out of the inner circle your boss trusts.
Your strategy: Gaining a nuanced understanding of the start-up's founder is a good beginning. You may be reporting to people younger than you, but your experience is your biggest asset. Make sure it is valued, without sounding condescending. Start-ups are outcome-oriented; make that your goal, too. If you can help raise funds for the company, even better.
The Nepotist
You are sincere, hard working, good with your deadlines and consistently deliver good results. But you are not your boss's pet.
Your strategy: Favouritism can be emotionally draining. But before it eats into your performance and peace of mind, take a step back and ask: "Is the boss's favourite a worthy professional?' 'Can I ignore it and still continue with my work?' After all, you can still prove yourself by bagging the next best project. But it helps to be smart and not be on opposite sides with the pet.
The Insecure Credit Snatcher
You had a brilliant proposal to which your boss didn't appear to pay much heed. But one day, you learn that he presented your idea as his own, without giving you a shred of credit.
Your strategy: Claim your idea before the possibility of a hijack arises. The moment you know your idea can create ripples, share it in its half-baked stage with colleagues and ask for inputs. But if your credit is hijacked, confronting the boss may not help. He could also turn vindictive. Be tactful and choose your battles wisely. Earning the confidence of your super boss (who your boss reports to) helps - knowing that your work is being noticed by those who matter is the next best thing to public acknowledgement.
The Mentor manager
You are one of those fortunate professionals who have a gem of a boss or super boss. You want to learn a lot from him/her, but he hasn’t mastered the art of mentoring, or simply doesn’t have the time.
Your strategy: Your first step could be as simple as saying you want to learn from them. Being specific about the skills you want guidance with, helps. Observe their conduct. Genuine admiration and a desire to learn are always appreciated.
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