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It is possible that you've heard the term gaslighting in the context of relationships only, but well gaslighters can be anywhere and everywhere, even your workplace. Do you identify dealing with a boss who deliberately tries to make you second guess your abilities? Someone who makes you question your own beliefs and judgement? Well, if the answers are a big yes then chances are your boss was or is a gaslighter.
It is important for a professional to identify the early sins of a boss who indulges in gaslighting. otherwise sometimes professionals can start second guessing their own abilities in worse case scenarios.
Listed below are some signs that suggest your boss is a gaslighter. Take a look at them.
Deflecting the blame on you on purpose
If you feel that your boss deliberately tries to blame you for thinking a certain way, then it may be a sign that your boss is gaslighting you. Their intention could be either to deflect the blame or to make you feel under confident of your own ability to discern.
Overwhelm one with work and unrealistic expectations
If you feel that your boss deliberately tries to overwhelm you with work responsibilities and unrealistic expectations so that you start second guessing your competency level and calibre, it may be a sign that they are trying to gaslight you. When a boss deliberately tries to make you feel under confident, it is something that you need to be wary of.
Criticising you unnecessarily
If you feel that your boss deliberately criticises you unnecessarily and openly before your peers just to take a toll on your confidence or get under your nerves, then it is a sign that they may be trying to gaslight you. Such bosses do so just to make the person feel that they’re not capable of the job position they’re at.
They go back on their promises
It is often seen that bosses who indulge in gaslighting often go back on their promises. It is possible that your boss had promised you a good appraisal, but when you actually got below par appraisal, they may just pretend that they never committed anything to you. So, this is also a serious form of gaslighting.
They become rude to you when you question them
Bosses who gaslight professionals often become defensive when they’re questioned. They will try to either overpower the other person by using their clout and authority or simply try to take a U turn from their earlier stance. They make even question the professional back and try to project as if they don’t understand where the bone of contention is.