Manage your boss to avoid conflict

Difficult bosses can be handled without handing in a resignation letter.

Administration professional recruitment specialists OfficeTeam have identified five types of challenging employers and how to work with them.

* MICROMANAGERS have trouble delegating tasks and when assigning a project, this boss tells exactly how, when and where to do it.

Trust is usually the issue so try to do everything in your power to build it. Don’t miss deadlines, pay attention to details and keep your manager informed.

* POOR COMMUNICATORS provide little or no direction, so assignments often have to be completed at the last minute or redone because goals and deadlines were not explained clearly.

Diplomatically point out that providing more information upfront will avoid undue stress and save time for everyone in the long run.

* THE BULLY wants things his or her way or no way at all. Bosses like this also tend to be gruff and easily frustrated. Stand up for yourself. The next time they shoot you down, calmly explain your rationale.

* SABOTEURS undermine the efforts of other workers and rarely recognise individuals for a job well done.

This supervisor takes credit for employee ideas but places blame on others when projects go awry. Ensure your contributions are visible to senior management especially so that your role is not overlooked.