Working for a Control Freak

Dear Sue:
I work for someone who is impossible to please. She blows up easily, and is a control freak. Her demands are relentless and unrealistic. She expects miracles, and stresses out everyone around her. Because she is so intense, it is impossible to approach her, and we end up suffering as a result. What are our options?
– Suffering

Sue Says: Your only option, other than quitting your job or seeking a transferring to another department, is to talk with her. As uncomfortable as it will be, you need to do something unless you are willing to continue to work under these stressful circumstances. Although it will be uncomfortable for you, if you take some time to think about your approach and plan what you want to say, you have a greater chance of reaching her.
You don’t want to blame her or create more stress for yourself. Perhaps you can let her know that you all work very hard to please her and want to make her job easier, but are having a difficult time because of the intense environment and feel as though nothing you do is satisfactory. Perhaps you can ask her if there is anything you can do to help alleviate some of the stress you all (including her) feel.
There is a good chance you may feel worse as a result of your talk, but also a chance you can reach her. However, unless you are willing to do something, and stand up for what you need, you surely won’t see any changes made. If you still cannot open the doors of communication and she becomes worse or stays the same, then you will need to talk with someone else. I realize it is tough, and may add some additional stress initially, but if you do nothing, nothing will change.
— Sue Morem is a professional speaker, best-selling author and syndicated columnist. Her books include How to Gain the Professional Edge, 101 Tips for Graduates, and the just released How to Get a Job and Keep It, Second Edition. You can send questions to her by email at asksue@suemorem.com or visit her web site at http://www.suemorem.com.
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