Surviving the Boss from Hell (HBR Case Study)

A project manager with a talent for creating dashboards, David is frustrated by his repressive, micromanaging boss, Thaddeus - aka "the Commodore." Thaddeus drones on about the high point of his own (now stalled) career, calls unnecessary last-minute meetings, and tries to one-up his direct reports - while bending over backward to honor an intern's filing job. David has managed to impress Irving, the EVP of Finance Europe, enough to receive a job offer, but it's a lateral move with no increase in pay. What should he do? Three experts comment on this fictional case study in R0909B and R0909Z. He should stay where he is, at least for now, says Gini Graham Scott, an author, consultant, and motivational speaker. Meanwhile, he can form a supportive network of colleagues, make a special effort to find pleasures outside of work, and even attempt - non-confrontationally and subtly - to improve his relationship with the Commodore. Brad Gilbreath, formerly a human resources manager and now an assistant professor at Colorado State University, advises David to escape from Thaddeus in the interest of his own health. Research shows that bosses' behavior can lead to high blood pressure or psychiatric problems in their subordinates. By learning how to set boundaries, says Lauren Sontag, the president of a consulting firm specializing in executive coaching, leadership development, and talent management, David might be able to improve his relationship with Thaddeus. But accepting Irving's offer would provide more room to maneuver and advance. Alternatively, David might propose a dashboard "center of excellence" to serve both Thaddeus and Irving.

• Organizational hierarchies
• Leadership and managing people
• Managing up
• Interpersonal skills
• Career planning