Working with an incompetent leader can be challenging and frustrating, but it is possible to find success and maintain your productivity despite this obstacle.
Here are five strategies that may help you navigate this difficult situation:
Practice diplomacy: It’s important to remember that your leader is still your boss and deserves respect. While you may not agree with their actions or decisions, try to communicate your concerns and needs in a diplomatic and respectful manner. This can help you maintain a positive working relationship and prevent unnecessary conflicts.
Do it their way (for now): Your leader may be resistant to change or have a particular way of doing things. To gain their trust and establish yourself as a team player, try to do things their way the first time. Then, you can offer one suggestion for improvement in the future. This can show that you are willing to listen and work with them, while also demonstrating your value as a team member.
Set clear boundaries and expectations: Incompetent leaders may not have a clear sense of their own limitations or may try to take on more than they can handle. Set clear boundaries and expectations for your own work and make sure to communicate these to your leader. This can help you stay focused and prevent unnecessary conflicts.
Look for opportunities to learn and grow: Even in a difficult work environment, there are always opportunities to learn and grow. Look for ways to take on new challenges and responsibilities, and seek out learning opportunities that can help you build new skills and advance your career.
Bring in a respected third party: If your leader is becoming unbearable to work with. It may be helpful to bring in a respected third party to mediate the situation. Speak to HR and have them offer an objective perspective and help find a resolution for this challenging situation.
Dealing with an incompetent leader can be a difficult and stressful experience, but by following these strategies, you can find success and maintain your productivity despite the challenges. Remember to stay focused on your own goals and priorities, and don’t be afraid to seek help when you need it.
Lead From Within: There are many incompetent leaders, and it is what you do when you encounter them that will make a big difference in your career.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.