How to deal with an abusive boss

First, it is really important to identify the specific abusive behaviors your boss is exhibiting towards you. Understanding the particular behaviors can assist you in determining how best to handle each one and the situation as a whole.

• A direct approach

You must remain professional and polite, but you must also be transparent and direct with your boss. To do this, make use of "I" statements to explain how their behavior makes you feel, and how it affects your work performance.

• Use communication skills

Having and using strong communication skills is one of the most effective ways to work with an abusive boss. You should practice active listening, stay calm when interacting with them, and try to keep your emotions in check.

• Take notes of your interactions

If your boss is constantly abusive toward you, it might be a good idea to start keeping a record of every key interaction you have with them. You need these notes for documentation purposes with your HR department or outside legal counsel.

• Set boundaries

If their behavior continues to persist, you might consider setting firm boundaries with your boss. Let them know that their behavior is unacceptable and you will not continue to tolerate it.

• HR / Legal

If you have tried all of the above steps, your last two options (save finding another job) are to meet with your HR department or a lawyer outside of your company about the matter. This depends on the severity of the abuse from your boss, however, there are certain instances where abusive behavior from them warrants you taking legal action.