Recognizing When Your Boss Is Intentionally Pushing You Out

Many employees feel underappreciated, and often, the signs they need to look out for are subtle or hidden deep within the dynamics of the workplace. Intuition can be a powerful tool in this situation, but it's important to validate your suspicions through concrete actions and interactions. In this article, we'll explore the signs that may indicate whether your boss is deliberately trying to push you out or get you to quit, as well as practical steps to take if you suspect this is happening.

The Importance of Intuition

Your gut instinct can often tell you when something is amiss, even if you're not entirely sure why. This article will guide you on how to interpret those intuitions and act accordingly. One piece of advice is to start building an emergency fund if you're uncomfortable with your current situation. Being financially prepared can be a defensive move that gives you more control over your life and helps you make informed decisions without panic.

Direct Communication and Self-Assessment

The easiest way to know what's going on is to simply talk to your boss. However, direct confrontation may not always be the best approach. Instead, you can ask for feedback or your opinion on important matters. If your boss doesn't value your input or your performance, this can be a sign that they're not satisfied with your work.

Signs of Intentional Pushout

There are clear and unmistakable signs that your boss might be intentionally pushing you out. Here are some of the most common indicators:

Reduced Workload: If your manager starts cutting your work hours drastically, it could be a sign that they are trying to reduce your impact on the team. For instance, my boss in a small operation reduced my work hours from 30 to 11 hours a week suddenly. This was a significant change that made it hard to sustain a living wage. Exclusion from Meetings and Information: You may notice that you are being excluded from important meetings and information-sharing sessions. This indicates a lack of trust and may be a strategy to distance you from the project or team. Increased Workload or Redundancy: Alternatively, your boss might increase your workload dramatically to the point where you leave voluntarily due to burnout, or make your work redundant by giving it to others.

Engaging with HR and Legal Protection

In situations where you suspect intentional pushout, it can be wise to speak to the human resources department. HR can provide a formal channel for addressing concerns and offer support. Remember that there is legal protection against constructive dismissal, so if your employment is terminated without a just cause, you may have grounds for a legal claim.

Professional and Financial Preparedness

In my personal experience, I faced a situation where a client's team lead was actively trying to get me fired. This individual was toxic and unprofessional, but I managed to stay employed by completing my work ahead of schedule and refusing to leave prematurely. As a contractor, I could leave the project without disrupting my financial stability, which provided a buffer against the toxic environment.

If you are an employee of a permanent position, it can be more challenging to navigate such a situation. Building an emergency fund and preparing your finances can provide a safety net against unexpected changes in employment. Additionally, actively seeking feedback and understanding the dynamics of your workplace can help you build a stronger case if you ever need to address constructive dismissal.

Lastly, always consider the bigger picture when making decisions about your career. Financial preparedness, open communication, and awareness of the signs of intentional pushout can all contribute to your long-term success and well-being in the workplace.