Has your boss been treating you like a bad child? Are you always left feeling like you just don’t measure up? It’s possible that your supervisor may not like you very much. Even worse, he or she could be plotting ways to get rid of you. Here are some tell-tale signs that you aren’t your boss’s favorite —and tips for salvaging the relationship.
1. You’re given impossible assignments
Is the boss man (or lady) asking you to complete tasks in half the time required without a single mistake? If you’re expected to perform a daily miracle without the proper resources, your boss hates you. Either that’s the case, or your company is seriously lacking resources and you should think about leaving before the stress kills you.
2. You’re being micromanaged
If you always feel your boss’s hot breath on your neck while you work, he doesn’t trust you (or you’re being harassed and you should contact human resources). A helicopter boss will never fully be comfortable letting you complete tasks on your own. If this is a new change in your supervisor’s behavior, it could be in response to some major blunder on your behalf, and the boss is afraid you’ll mess up again. Remember that your boss also has a boss that he must answer to. Your mistake can become his worst nightmare and make him look really bad in his boss’s eyes. If your boss won’t back away, your days could be numbered.
3. Lack of eye contact
When you say “good morning” are you met with a grunt and no eye contact? It could be a hint to get lost. (On the other hand, if you get an eye roll, that’s a pretty clear sign he hates you.) Although it’s possible your boss may not be a morning person, it’s also possible he thinks you’re annoying and wants you to go away forever.
4. Avoidance of small talk
If having a conversation with your supervisor is like pulling teeth, you may have a problem on your hands. Constant reticence is usually indicative of wanting to be left alone. Your best bet is to not force the conversation. You could attempt to find a better time to talk or even ask if it’s a good time, but if your boss is always making a beeline when he sees you, take the hint.
5. Nothing you do is ever right
Is your boss constantly heaping criticism on you? When every other word out of your supervisor’s mouth is negative, it may be a sign to start clearing out your desk. Try asking your boss if there is anything you can do to improve your performance. Try incorporating the suggestions, but if nothing changes, you’re just fighting a losing battle.\
