How can you use an emotional appeal in a meeting with a supervisor who is rude, controlling and constantly critical? What emotions will be appropriate and which ones will be inappropriate and why?
I don't know of an answer to this. I do know whatever is deemed best depends on your goals: betterment of the organization, or your own self. While it may not improve the boss's behavior if workers retaliate in passive-aggressive ways, such as ignoring the boss or doing half-hearted work, research from earlier this year shows that such an approach has at least one upside: employees say it at least made them feel better. Those who stood up for themselves were less likely to self-identify as victims, less apt to report psychological distress and more likely to be committed to their jobs.
Thank you, I thinking the same thing, just wanted to make sure.
Using an emotional appeal in a difficult meeting with a rude, controlling, and critical supervisor can be tricky, but it could be effective in certain situations. Here are some steps to consider:
1. Self-awareness: Before proceeding, it's important to recognize and regulate your own emotions. Take a moment to calm yourself and prepare for the meeting. Keep in mind that maintaining professionalism is crucial.
2. Empathy: Put yourself in your supervisor's shoes to understand their perspective and potential reasons for their behavior. This can help you approach the situation with empathy, which is an appropriate emotion to display.
3. Validating emotions: Start the conversation by acknowledging your supervisor's concerns and emotions. This demonstrates understanding and can potentially make them more open to hearing your own perspective.
4. Logic and reason: Balance your emotional appeal with facts, logical arguments, and objective evidence to support your points. This way, you can provide a solid foundation for your concerns and showcase your professionalism.
Appropriate emotions to display in this situation might include:
- Empathy: Showing understanding for your supervisor's perspective and acknowledging their emotions can help build trust and open the door for dialogue.
- Assertiveness: Displaying confidence and standing up for yourself in a respectful manner can demonstrate your professionalism and determination to address the issues.
Inappropriate emotions to display might include:
- Anger: Expressing overt anger can escalate the situation and potentially damage your professional relationship.
- Defensiveness: While it is understandable to feel defensive, reacting defensively may hinder productive communication.
Remember, the appropriateness of emotions can vary depending on the specific circumstances and individuals involved. It's essential to gauge the situation and adapt accordingly.