What techniques or approaches do you use when dealing with a difficult superior?

2015-09-29T16:17:26-04:00

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Sep 29 at 2015 4:20 PM

2015-09-29T16:20:07-04:00

1) Absolute politeness.
2) Following the order to the letter.
3) Remembering that one of you will be gone in 1-2 two years.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Sep 29 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-09-29T16:25:13-04:00

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member - The answer given by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS is right on target.

Remember that, unless he/she is doing something immoral or illegal, you are in a bad position to do much about it. You could try talking to him/her about the issues you perceive to be "difficult" and, if you think he/she is wrong, you are always free to go to the next higher to express your concerns.

Whatever, just remain professional, do your duty to the best of your ability, and don't do anything to make matters worse. This too shall pass...

Response by Cpl James Waycasie made Sep 29 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-09-29T17:50:44-04:00

Throat punch, lol just kidding.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 29 at 2015 5:56 PM

2015-09-29T17:56:43-04:00

Respectfully speaking the truth has helped sometimes. That includes not trying to fight fire with fire which usually leads to trouble.
Escape and evasion can delay confrontation but it is rarely a viable long-term solution :-)

Response by Sgt Tom Cunnally made Sep 29 at 2015 6:28 PM

2015-09-29T18:28:14-04:00

"What techniques or approaches do you use when dealing with a difficult superior?"

I worked for a Flaming @@@hole & asked if we could talk about his problem with me..It didn't help so I did the next best thing I got.a transfer out from his dept. This guy was a piece of work who never had a good word to say about anyone except himself. He became a Dept Manager at a young age & it really went to his head..

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 9:03 PM

2015-09-29T21:03:09-04:00

Document Everything
Identify his/her motivation
Stay a step ahead (Learn the expectations he has and then meet them ahead of being asked)
Act as the leader. Make some leadership decisions on your own.
Know your position better than he or she does.
Know the regulations and policy forward and backward.