How to tell your boss you’re not happy at work
Being unhappy at work is something everyone experiences at some point. Sometimes you outgrow your position or maybe you get a new boss who unsettles you. Telling your Manager you’re not happy is risky – there is always a chance they will think you are leaving. However, talking to your boss can help. If they know there is a problem they may be able to fix it.
Here are some tips on how you could tell your boss you are unhappy
Make sure your boss is a “bad boss”
Observe your boss and try to notice how many things he or she does well versus poorly. Is it truly his or her fault that they are unable to manage effectively?
Bite your tongue
We highly recommend opting for a tight-lipped approach – it’s actually pretty tough to come across as “respectfully disagreeing”, it is better to say nothing
Being unhappy at work is something everyone experiences at some point. Sometimes you outgrow your position or maybe you get a new boss who unsettles you. Telling your Manager you’re not happy is risky – there is always a chance they will think you are leaving. However, talking to your boss can help. If they know there is a problem they may be able to fix it.
Here are some tips on how you could tell your boss you are unhappy:-
It’s not what you say – it’s the way you say it
Choose your words carefully, avoid saying “I’m not happy”, be positive say things like “I think I would be of more value to you if you gave me more of X to do” or “I have some ideas on how I can be more useful in the department.”
Plan your meeting with the boss and prepare well
Be sure you initiate the conversation about your happiness in your job. If your boss beats you to it you may have already missed your chance to turn things around. Make a list for yourself of the reasons you feel you are not happy and how they could be improved.
Don’t ask for a change – suggest one
For every issues you bring to your boss, propose a solution. No boss likes to be read a list of grievances from an unhappy employee. If you complain without suggesting a fix, you risk being seen as moany and difficult.
Be positive, but stick to the point
When talking to your boss fight the urge to moan. Communicate clearly and honestly about why the job is not working for you and what support/training/help/change you need to happen in order that you can be more productive in your role.
Be humble and seek help
It is always OK to ask for help, sometimes you need your boss’s advice on how to manage tough challenges – it’s part of their job to help you succeed in yours. Having an open conversation with your boss occasionally can make a big difference to how you feel.
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