Bossed around? Six ways to deal with difficult leaders

1. Play your part in the drama

First, understand that theatrics matter. All-powerful leaders often frame interactions as symbolic victories rather than substantive discussions. Don’t try to subvert the drama; play your part in it instead. Rather than challenging an omnipotent leader head-on, anchor your ideas as a natural plot in their vision and define yourself as a main character.

2. Shape the narrative early

Omnipotent leaders are supreme examples of what Daniel Kahneman calls “priming” – the first analysis, interpretation, or version of events often shapes how others perceive the issue. So, try to get in there first and shape the leader’s first impressions and baseline understanding. Remember: whoever speaks first may not own the stage, but they do set it.

3. Harness the power of ego

Frame feedback to omnipotent leaders that aligns or complements their self-image and add new adornments to it – not with hollow compliments (flattery may yield short-term results but ultimately reinforces erratic behavior), but by reinforcing those grains of character that may support your cause.

4. Redirect the discussion

Having validated the great one’s leadership and identified legitimate strengths, subtly redirect discussions toward constructive outcomes.

5. Build rapport

You don’t need to like or agree with an individual to engage with them effectively. Instead, focus on creating a good enough rapport to work together. This means finding something that connects you both and avoiding confrontation.

6. Fight back – with back-up

The last resort is escalation and “full-fight mode”. This strategy may feel good in the moment but rarely works. It should only be used if nothing else works – and is more effective if done in conjunction with other leaders. A well-timed escalation can signal to others that resistance is valid, encouraging them to step forward. When leaders see that opposition is organized, they may reconsider their stance to avoid losing credibility.