Understanding Your Boss's Response to Your Queries

Dealing with a boss who reacts negatively to your questions can be frustrating. However, it’s essential to consider different perspectives, particularly whether they are acting as a ‘superman’ or a ‘delegator’ boss. This article explores various reasons behind a boss's anger and provides practical solutions for effective communication and understanding.

The Superman vs. Delegator Boss Paradigm

There are essentially two types of bosses: the mentor (superman) and the delegator. A superman boss can do everything their staff can do if there were more of them; in contrast, a delegator boss is the one who assigns tasks and clears obstacles for their staff to do their jobs. The delegator typically handles very specialized tasks and knows less about the day-to-day operations of their team.

If your boss is a delegator, they are likely to be frustrated when you expect them to know detailed information about your work. This is because they trust you as the subject matter expert and are not expected to know everything about every task.

On the other hand, if your boss is viewed as a superman, you can reasonably assume that you are performing the same type of work and should be able to determine what your boss knows.

Addressing Frustration and Misunderstandings

When your boss reacts with frustration or anger, it may not be directly aimed at you. They might just be overwhelmed by work or dealing with a situation that brings out their vulnerability. Here are a few steps to help address and prevent such misunderstandings:

Refocus the Questioning: If your boss says they don’t know the answer, shift to asking where you can find that information instead of focusing on their lack of knowledge. This approach ensures clarity without being personally confrontational. Respect Their Limits: Understand that their frustration might be due to overloading. Ensure your queries are concise and to the point, avoiding lengthy or complex questions that may exceed their current workload. Rephrase Your Questions: Sometimes, rephrasing your questions can make them less confrontational. Ask for advice in a less direct manner, such as suggesting options or seeking guidance.

The Importance of Social Skills and Trust

Regardless of a boss’s superb social skills, their managerial position often indicates a reason for their leadership role. It’s crucial to endure the challenges while learning and growing from these situations. Sometimes, the anger might stem from unresolved personal issues or a lack of trust.

If your boss is viewing your questions as loaded or suspicious, it can be an indication of a trust issue. Try to build rapport and understand their perspective. Providing clear, concise, and honest communication can often alleviate such concerns.

Conclusion

When you encounter a boss who seems angry when you ask questions, consider the broader context of their role and mindset. Whether they are a superman or a delegator boss, understanding their perspective and adopting effective communication strategies can significantly improve your working relationship.