Not only can working for a “bad boss” contribute to dissatisfaction at work, it has also been shown to increase an employee’s risk of heart disease according to the results of a recent Swedish study. The study of “3,122 male workers” mentioned in The Globe and Mail finds that “someone who has worked for a bad boss for at least four years raises the risk of heart disease by 64 per cent.”

A “bad boss” is described in the article as one who does not set clear expectations, does not express appreciation and does not support employees. These behaviours contribute to job stress, which subsequently may be linked to the findings of the study.

Job stress can be reduced by giving employees clear expectations, a sentiment that is reinforced by a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health  working group. This group advises that “job stress results when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker.”

Undoubtedly, it is the manager’s job to learn about, support and reward his or her direct reports. Likewise – as many of the Globe and Mail readers comment – employees also need to communicate openly with their managers.

An idea that takes this idea one step further can be found on Healthline℠. Author Harriet Meyerson shares a list of items around which employees may hold expectations. Meyerson recommends that employees write down all of these expectations and use them as a basis for a discussion with their boss.  

Do you think a tool like this could be beneficial for employees at your workplace?

References:

Grant, Tavia. “Are bad bosses killing you?” GlobeandMail.com [www.reportonbusiness.com]. November 25, 2008.

Meyerson, Harriet. “Clarifying Your Work Expectations-Health Article.” Healthline ℠ [www.healthline.com]. October 17, 2006.

NIOSH Working Group. “STRESS…At Work.” National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Obtained November 26, 2008.