It’s no secret that the world of work can be tough. From long hours to difficult co-workers, plenty of challenges can make going to the office a drag.

But one of the most frustrating things about working is dealing with an unethical boss. Whether they’re crossing boundaries, breaking the law, or being downright unfair, an unethical boss can make your life a nightmare.

So what can you do if you find yourself in this situation? Here are some tips on how to deal with an unethical boss.

 

What To Do When Dealing With An Unethical Boss

 

1. Understand that HR is there to protect the COMPANY, not any employee

If you feel like your boss is crossing the line, it’s important to remember that HR is not there to protect you. They’re there to protect the company. So if you go to them with a complaint, they’re likely to side with your boss. So make sure you have a solid case before you go to HR.

It’ll do you well to document everything that’s been going on. Keep a detailed record of instances where you feel your boss has been unethical. This will help you build a stronger case if you decide to take action. Even better if you can get witnesses or other forms of evidence. This way, you’ll be more likely to get HR on your side.

 

2. Approach HR by framing how the superior’s behavior is a threat to the company

If you decide to go to HR, it’s essential to frame the issue in terms of how your boss’s behavior threatens the company. This could be a financial threat, a reputation threat, or anything else that could negatively impact the company. By approaching the issue from this angle, you’re more likely to get HR on your side.

If you document your boss’s unethical behavior, this will help make your case to HR. Show them how their behavior costs the company money or damages its reputation. The more evidence you have, the better. All you’ve got to do is review your notes and present your case clearly and concisely.

Try your best to stay calm and level-headed throughout the process. Remember, you’re trying to convince HR that your boss is a threat to the company. Getting emotional won’t help your case.

 

3. If HR or the company isn’t supportive in general, report the behavior to your state labor board

Suppose you don’t think HR will be helpful or the company isn’t supportive. In that case, your next step is to report the behavior to your state labor board. This will vary depending on the strength of your claim. But many wrongs in the workplace have been corrected when the labor board gets involved.

Remember that filing a complaint with the labor board is a serious matter. So make sure you have a solid case before you take this step. Again, documentation will be key. The more evidence you have, the better your chance of winning your case.

 

4. Have a backup plan

Person creating backup plan for when dealing with an unethical boss

Getting involved with the labor board can be a long and drawn-out process. And even if you win your case, there’s no guarantee you’ll get the desired result. So it’s vital to have a backup plan. Consider looking for another job while you’re going through the process. That way, even if the situation with your boss doesn’t get resolved, you can still move on to a better job.

The nice thing about having a backup plan is that it takes some of the pressure off. You’re not as reliant on the outcome of the labor board case. And if you do win, you can always choose to stay at your current job or move on to the new one.

 

Conclusion For What To Do When Dealing With An Unethical Boss

Dealing with an unethical boss can be awful. But you can make it through if you know how to handle the situation.

Just remember to keep your cool, document everything, and approach HR from a position of strength. You can always take your case to the state labor board if all else fails. With any luck, you’ll be able to get the justice you deserve. And if not, at least you’ll have a backup plan in place.