My boss has no backbone. His employees run roughshod over him because he’s scared of turning down their demands. He’s not respected and gives me no direction either. I’ve tried supporting him but this makes me unpopular with my colleagues. What should I do?

Not every manager is born with boss-like abilities. An inspirational salesman or innovative marketer can rise to the top but, once they’re hoisted to managerial heights, they flounder.

No wonder you want to help. Apart from boosting your own career, you’re too kindly to watch the office hyenas tear him apart. You hear of workplace bullying but it’s not often that the boss is shaking in the stationery cupboard is it?

So, the first port of call is your conscience and you must take a stand. Start with your colleagues. When they gripe, tell them that you don’t appreciate being pig in the middle. Then explain that their demands aren’t doing the business any favours. Don’t be snooty, though.

Then round on your boss. Don’t tell him that he’s a buffoon. Act as office gatekeeper instead. When someone arrives with a demand, take his or her request to him yourself. That way you can offer him a solution. You could even offer to take charge of whatever tasks cause him headaches.

It’s also worth boosting his skills and confidence while you are at it. Are there any corporate training courses that would benefit him? Speak to HR for details and reassure him that you’ll keep the office ticking over should he sign up. Anything that makes him feel stronger is worth a shot. Tread very carefully though. Be too heavy-handed and you’ll make him feel even weaker than he seems to be. Don’t forget, you’re his PA not his mother.

Of course, all of this may not involve a pay raise but his gratitude could work in your favour. The result? He’ll love you for coming to the rescue, the hyenas will slink back into the forest and you’ll get a shiny new role to play with. Ever thought about being a tyrannical manager?

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