Q: I am a woman in my late 20s working in the accounts department of a small organisation.

My boss does not like me and I do not believe he is competent. He manages poorly, as we miss our targets. He avoids me even though we should work closely.

He hardly speaks to me and instructs one of the lower-level staffers to send things to my desk. I do the same. He also gives them instructions to give me. If I am sick or miss a day from work, he sends me memos.

Do you think I should report him to the board of management?

A: An employee spends a significant amount of time at work, so it is frustrating when the environment is unbearable.

Reporting your boss to the board of management is not a good idea. This would apply if he was guilty of serious breaches such as stealing company's money, or having a personal company that rivals the one he is working, or sexual harassment. The board ought to measuring his performance. Your focus is to ensure that when he appraises you, it is fair and balance. I hope you know before hand what your targets are.

Your problem appears to be personal. Perhaps, your organisation does not have a human resource manager due to its size. Therefore, a candid and cordial talk with your boss is needed to discuss the problems you are facing, expectations you have of him and find out what he expects of you.

I would also suggest you avoid the tit-for-tat approach of not having any contact with him.

When you are missing work, please remember to inform your boss in advance. Ensure memo inaccuracies are pointed out for them to be changed.

Try to improve the environment by greeting him. Even when you are leaving for lunch, you could inform him. Perhaps, he is insecure and sees you as a threat. Therefore, ensure that you affirm him, where appropriate, about his performance.

I hope these suggestions will help, if not, keep your options open by seeking alternative employment.

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