You work hard, but it seems like your boss just doesn’t like you. Maybe they’re acting stand-offish, or perhaps you just get the worst assignments. It’s really stressful to deal with a disinterested boss, but their poor attitude may not have anything to do with you.[1] In this article, we'll discuss common signs that a boss doesn't like you, along with other possible reasons for their behavior. We'll also share easy tips for winning over your boss no matter what situation you're in.

This article is based on an interview with our certified life purpose coach, Mel Shipman, owner of NextLevel Life, LLC. Check out the full interview here.

Things You Should Know

  • Your boss may give you assignments no one wants. Talking to your boss and creating opportunities for yourself can help.
  • Your boss might ignore you, snap at you, or micromanage you. Scheduling time to talk to your boss and taking initiative with your tasks may help.
  • You may have trouble getting a raise or feedback. Documenting your achievements can help your boss see your value.
1

They treat you differently from other employees.

  1. You probably don’t need to worry if your boss treats everyone the same. If you’re concerned that you’re being treated differently, check with your coworkers to see how they feel. Then, talk to your boss about what you’d like to happen moving forward. In that conversation, assure your boss that you’ll respect their preferences.[2]
    • Say to coworkers, “Is Lu still doing weekly meetings with you?” or “Have you gotten any great feedback lately?”
    • When you talk to your boss, say, “We haven’t been having regular meetings lately, and I was hoping we could get back to a regular schedule,” or “I really appreciate your feedback because I respect your knowledge and expertise. Would it be possible for me to get more direction from you moving forward?”
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2

They don’t make eye contact.

  1. Your boss might avoid eye contact because they’re busy or anxious. On the other hand, they could be avoiding eye contact because they don’t value your opinions. In general, making eye contact shows that you’re interested in what someone has to say and that you’re truly listening to them.[3] To be on the safe side, ask your boss how you can communicate with them in a way that respects their time.
    • “I’ve noticed that you aren’t making eye contact. Have I come at a bad time?”
    • “Does it bother you when I make eye contact? I want you to feel comfortable when I’m talking to you.”
6

They don’t give you feedback—or are super negative.

  1. Some bosses struggle with giving feedback. In some cases, your boss may stop giving you feedback because they’re checked out. It's really frustrating to feel like you aren't getting proper attention from your boss, and you might even feel unvalued.[6] To fix this problem, talk to your boss about getting better feedback.
    • If you want feedback, use the KISS method. Ask for one thing you should keep, one thing you should improve, one thing you should start, and one thing you should stop.
    • If they often give you negative feedback, talk to your boss about what you need to do a better job.
    • You might ask another employee to be your mentor so you can get good feedback. Pick someone who will benefit you the most, and validate their experience when you ask them.
7

They don’t ask for your input.

8

They only give you work no one else wants.

9

They prefer to communicate over email.

10

They don’t want to get to know you.

11

They refuse to give you a raise and won't say why.

  1. Your boss may not realize all the great work you’re doing. It's possible that your boss is withholding a raise because they don't like you, but it's more likely that your boss isn't fully aware of your achievements and contributions. To get that raise you deserve, focus on showing your boss what a valuable employee you are. Tell your boss what you’re working on and about the positive impacts you’ve had on your organization.[9]
    • “Can I give you a rundown of the projects I’ve completed this year?”
    • “I’m really proud of this report, but I’d love to have your feedback.”
    • “Can we schedule a meeting to review my work over the last year and set goals for this coming year?”
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About This Article

Mel Shipman
Written by:
Certified Life Purpose Coach, Owner of NextLevel Life, LLC
This article was written by Mel Shipman and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA. Mel Shipman is a Certified Life Purpose Coach & Mindset Coach. With over seven years of experience, she specializes in helping women leaders and entrepreneurs achieve their goals by shifting their mindsets and self-limiting beliefs. Mel holds a BS in Biology from Bowling Green State University, two master’s degrees in Business Administration and Health Administration from Webster University, and is a doctoral candidate in Professional Coaching from The Monarch Business School Switzerland. She has also received her Life Purpose Coach Certification from the Rhema International Training Group and is credentialed through the Certified Coaches Alliance. This article has been viewed 7,538 times.
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Co-authors: 6
Updated: October 25, 2022
Views: 7,538
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