Are you suffering under an idiot boss? You’re in the right place! In my latest episode, I offer tips for surviving and thriving under an idiot boss. 

In researching for the episode, one of the first things I discovered was a great book by John Hoover, “How to Work For an Idiot: How to Survive and Thrive Without Killing Your Boss.” He talks a lot about idiot engineering and all the strategic ways to better your working conditions so you don’t lose your mind. So keep reading to learn what idiot engineering is and how to make it work for you.

Idiot Engineering

According to Hoover, idiot engineering is simply assessing your work situation and working around your idiot boss to become a boost to their career – and yours. 

Some people may consider idiot engineering to be butt kissing. Hoover says this couldn’t be further from the truth. “The whole idea is to make working conditions more conducive to your career growth,” said Hoover. “Learn what’s important to your boss, understand what your company is looking for and help the fool meet those expectations.” 

What he’s talking about is being strategic. If your boss is just annoying, figure out a way that you can think of him as less annoying. If your idiot boss loves teaching what they know, go out of your way to let them teach you and learn from them. 

Engineering a Clueless Boss

According to John, some idiot bosses are clueless. While these clueless bosses may be some of the most obnoxious to work for, they are also an excellent opportunity for your career growth.

For example, I had a boss in my twenties who didn’t know much about marketing. He didn’t realize that I didn’t know much, despite my minor degree. Because he was clueless, he gave me a wide-open field. I learned so much because I could experiment with different marketing approaches.

Instead of viewing this clueless boss as an idiot, I viewed him as a growth opportunity. I was able to take that job and run with it, and that’s what I encourage you to do if you have a clueless boss.

Don’t Be a Meaning-Making Machine

There’s a personal growth organization called Landmark Education, and they talk about how we are meaning-making machines. This means that something happens, we make meaning out of it, and then we behave, speak and act based on that meaning.

This can be problematic in the workplace because we often make meaning out of nothing. Can you ask yourself some of these questions? Are there things your boss does that you could ignore so you can focus on what you want? What do you want to get out of that gig? Can you get what you want without too much drama and pain? Can you back away when things start to get strange?

If you can stay strategic, stay out of the drama, and stay above the fray, you will be able to thrive under an idiot boss. Look at the job as a bridge to somewhere else. Look at it as your learning opportunity or your revenue stream until you can jump to the next position that serves YOU better.

For more tips and tricks for working for an idiot boss, check out the latest episode of Work Mom Says.