The Rager Boss

Dear Joan,

The Corporate Vice President of my Division, has a very short fuse and often goes into rages at people both in public and in private. Although, so far, I have not been the focus of his rage, whenever I have been present and he is screaming at some one, I am embarrassed for the person and I am physically uncomfortable. In fact I am so uncomfortable that I can hardly focus on my work for an hour or more. I find myself avoiding him whenever possible and not wanting to take on assignments from him. He is truly abusive and the problems are often a result of his own poor management.

Short of quitting my job is there anything I can do?

Signed,
Miserable

Dear Miserable,

Yes, there are a number of things that you can do. First of all, let me say that, I am a strong believer that no one deserves or has to put up with abusive behavior from a boss, co-worker, vendor, customer or anyone else for that matter. It is simply unacceptable behavior.

In your letter you have done a good job of describing the problem in 'I' terms. That is taking responsibility for your own feelings and discomfort without blaming. I would suggest having a talk with the VP at a time when he is calm. Citing a specific event, state to him in a factual manner, exactly how you feel when he gets loud, angry and screams at someone and the affect it has on you and your ability to do your work.

You can then make a request for a change in his behavior or let him know what you will do the next time this happens; such as asking him to STOP, or simply walking a way until he can calm down and discuss the situation in a reasonable manner. By giving him your feedback, you are give him an opportunity to choose to make changes in his own behavior.

If this does not do the trick, and it may not, then put all this information in writing and go to see your Human Resources or Employee Relations manager. It will be up to the HR or ER person, together with the VP's boss, to take corrective action with the VP. It is very likely that action will be taken because the company will want to avoid a formal legal complaint.

If these actions do not result in an improvement in the VP's behavior then consider asking for a transfer out of this persons reporting structure. If that is not possible then you may want to look for an other job.

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