Managing an incompetent boss

I'm the environment compliance manager of a small factory. During my first month, I was surprised to learn of the plant manager's many leadership issues. I was expecting to learn from him, and yet, it appears that I should be the one teaching him. What can I do? - Cookie Crunch.

- REY ELBO

Teach him what you know without being arrogant about it. Be humble. Give your boss the benefit of the doubt, but at the same time, protect yourself. Many of us expect leadership to flow from the top down. But what happens when the person at the top is, let's be honest about it, out of his depth?

Imagine reporting directly to a boss who appears lost, indecisive, or worse completely unaware of what leadership is all about. It's like you're stuck answering to a captain who can't tell port from starboard, yet the ship must still sail.

If this is your situation, then take a deep breath. You're not powerless. Managing under an incompetent boss is tricky, but it's also an opportunity to strengthen your own leadership muscle.

SURVIVAL TIPS

It's not easy. But you'll surely survive and even thrive when your boss doesn't know what he's doing. And as long as you're honest about your strengths and weaknesses, you can manage the situation with the following:

One, gently cover the gaps for your boss. Whatever happens, keep the factory running. If your boss isn't providing direction, you must step in to prevent chaos. Just the same, ask email permission so that you can have proof later on in case something bad happens.

Take quiet control of the tasks that matter the most safety protocols, health checks, and more. Your unit shouldn't suffer just because leadership above you is weak. By stepping into the void, you ensure stability and demonstrate your own value.