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What to do when you have a bad manager

The best way to deal with a bad manager is to meet them where they are.

By Pat Kua

December 15, 2025

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

It’s a tale as old as time. So how do you navigate it? 

At some point in your career, you’ll probably work for a manager who makes your job harder than it needs to be. Maybe they micromanage, overpromise and underdeliver, or take credit for your work. It’s frustrating, but it can also be a powerful lesson in how to lead, influence, and protect your boundaries.

Define what “bad” means to you

The first step is to be specific about what “bad” means to you. Are they disorganized, abrupt, or simply different from what you expect? Sometimes what feels “bad” is really a clash in values, culture, or style.

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