If you’re working for a boss who experiences mood swings and who out of nowhere can suddenly become irritable, negative or ust go radio silent for no clear reason, this can make the workplace feel well, tense, to say the least. This type of person can be difficult to work with and/or make for an interesting workplace environment, but we’ve got some tips that will assist you with staying immune to the negative vibes.
Keep an Eye Out for Triggers
Sure, this could just be how they are as a person, but odds are, something is setting them off. Pay attention to their timing and what’s going on around them when these moods strike. If there doesn’t seem to be a pattern, and you feel comfortable doing so, strike up a conversation with your boss’s assistant or secretary and see if you could get a heads-up if/when your boss is in a mood.
Actively Try Not to BE the Trigger
If you figure out what triggers your boss, say missing a deadline with no explanation, then don’t do that. If a deadline is quickly approaching, go talk to your boss ASAP and explain what’s going on and let them know you’re coming to them for help. A boss can’t fault you for doing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing. Make it your goal to be part of the solution, and not part of the problem.
Don’t Fall For It
You can’t control the moods of other people, but you can control yours. If you find that your boss’s mood is rubbing off on you, maybe it’s time for some fresh air or to simply limit your interactions with your boss for a while until the sour mood is gone.
When in Doubt, Document
What starts out as moodiness, has the potential to turn vengeful. Worst case scenario, you may find yourself in a weird spot one day when you have to explain things to their boss and a little documentation goes a long way.
Just Chill
Be the calm you wish to see in the office. Your boss will center themselves eventually, but in the meantime, just relax and lighten things up with a calm demeanor and a little bit of humor.
Check Yourself
Use your boss’s negative attitude to evaluate your own. Are you upbeat? Meeting office expectations? Not that we agree with this approach, but sometimes bosses get moody toward employees when they aren’t meeting their expectations, so just do a double-check to ensure you aren’t part of the problem.
Chat With Your Boss (at the Right Time)
If your boss’s mood swings persist and your work is reflecting that or their mood is greatly affecting office morale, find a good time to talk to your boss and discuss what’s going on. In any case, make sure you aren’t complaining to coworkers or senior management – this typically only makes matters worse.
Take Care of You
Dealing with a moody person for a day, week, month, or even longer can be mentally exhausting. So if you’re dealing with a moody manager, make sure you’re making time for yourself to decompress and that you’re doing things you find relaxing. If your boss’s moodiness is just too much, it may be time to start scoping out some other options.