How do I know if my boss is stressed out and what can I do about it - Blair McPherson

 

The thing about stress is those who have it don't recognise it and so don't have any insight into the effect their behaviour has on those around them. If your boss has suddenly and uncharacteristically become difficult to work with, if team meetings are no longer fun, if the prospect of a one to one or even a short car journey together fills you with dread then your manager could be suffering from stress. Assuming you and your colleagues are not the cause what can you do?   

 

How do I know if my boss is stressed out? 
Bites finger nails
Doesn't take all their annual leave

Diary entries are in pencil because always rearranging or cancelling meetings 

First in office in the morning last out at night
Goes to pub every night and drinks alone 
Always losing papers/ reports
Asks inappropriate questions like,"do you think I am  a bully?"
Is negative about colleagues but demands loyalty in others 
Appears to have no social life or interests out side work
Says his boss doesn't like him and is trying to get rid of him
Thinks people are talking about him
Has trouble delegating
Is unpredictable
Has mood swings 
Can't sleep so sends emails
Everything is urgent and important 
Claims his views are ignored, opinions not valued, feels out of loop- "I don't know what's going on". 
When on holiday rings up daily to find out what's happening. 
Forgetful
Irritable and inpatient 
Abrasive with subordinates, sycophantic with those above 

Tendency to ask questions but not listen to answers,

In meeting repeats the same thing over and over as if more times says it and more ways says it will ensure it gets done
Fidgets, feet constantly rubbing carpet under table