What to do when your boss is yelling at you
Getting yelled at by your boss is a rite of passage for some – we've all been there at some point. With or without reason, it does not feel good to be on the receiving end of yelling. It is because they are your boss and not some random person on the streets, that it might be hard to grapple on how to react.
Unless they're harassing or bullying you (in which case you should go straight to HR), your reaction could cost you your job in the worst case scenario. Here is what you could do when your boss is yelling at you.
Keep your cool
Do not fight fire with fire. Instead, in the face of all that fire, opt to collect yourself. Ask yourself what the reason behind your boss's wrath could be or whether they are offloading their anger. After you've analysed the situation, you have to formulate a response.
Explain yourself
If your boss has the wrong idea about something, say so. Keep a matter-of-fact tone, and explain yourself. If your boss is demanding answers, give them. If you can be direct in your communication, chances are your shouting boss will calm down.
Own up to your mistakes
If you're getting yelled at because you messed up, own it. Denying it will only make your boss madder. Let your boss know that you understand your mistake, are very sorry, and will work as hard as you can to fix the problem as fast as possible.
Offer a solution
Whatever's going on, whether it's because of your folly or something out of your control, offer a solution. Yelling comes from frustration, so chances are your boss feels cornered. If you can be creative and show initiative in moving forward, you might be offering your boss a solution they couldn't see on their own.
Escape
When your boss yells at you almost every other day, there will come a point, when the screamer just isn't worth putting up with. If the stress of the situation is making you miserable both at and outside work, you're better off looking for ways to get away from your boss - either through a transfer or a new job. You don't deserve to be treated discourteously.
Lastly, always follow up. When you've had a conflict at work, always follow up to see that it's resolved. After you've been yelled at by your boss, follow up the next day to make sure everything is square. Whether that's working towards the solution, or finalising the solution, stay on top of it, and show that you care about your job and making things work. No one wants to be in their boss's bad books, especially when that boss is prone to flying off the hook, so be proactive to earn your good graces back.
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