Feeling Undervalued at Work? How to Understand Your Boss's Sudden Change in Behavior

Hi, I have been working for a private company as an Accounts Executive for the past 15 years. I have always prioritized work over money. However, nowadays my boss is behaving very differently towards me compared to previous years. I am unsure of the reasons for this sudden change.

Everything seemed fine until now. This time, the increment I received is significantly less compared to my colleagues, and I have not been given any reasons for this disparity. I am feeling confused about what could be the possible reasons behind this treatment.

I would appreciate any guidance on understanding the potential reasons behind my boss's behavior. Thank you for your help.

Self-Analysis for Understanding Boss's Behavior

First, do a self-analysis. Maybe your attitude change might have brought the change in your boss's attitude.

• Are you reporting at the same time for duty?
• Has any new position been filled above your position recently?
• Has there been any mishandling of accounts and money transactions? (It is challenging to answer, but this may be the best reason for your boss's change.)
• Did you settle all the taxes on time, or did your company receive any letters from the government body for tax deficiencies?
• Has any new ERP been installed in your company recently?
• Have you taken a long leave recently where you failed to delegate your tasks diligently?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, it could certainly harm your career in that company.

Hi, I have been working for a private company as an Accounts Executive for the last 15 years. I have always prioritized work over money. However, recently, my boss has been acting very differently towards me compared to previous years. I am unsure of the reasons for this change. Everything was going fine until now. This time, the increment I received is less compared to others, without any explanation. I am a bit confused and seeking guidance on what might be the reasons for this sudden change in behavior.

Regards

Dear Hemaharish,

I would suggest you have a personal discussion with your boss. Ask him if there are any mistakes from your side. Is he happy with your performance? Is there anything that you can improve upon? I am sure this meeting will provide valuable insights.

With warm regards,

Deepak Vasudevan

Deepak's suggestion is good. But if he says that he is not happy, then what is going to be your reaction? So before such a dialogue, please find out an offer for you and then discuss. If things improve, it is better to continue in the same company than switching (A known devil is always better).

Mr. Muthukrish's point is good, especially point no. 2. Do the self-analysis first and then go for a discussion with your boss.

Best regards,
Sanjay.C

Dear Hemaharish,

I have also passed through the same condition as yours. I strongly suggest you quit the job immediately. There is no question of thinking anymore. Firstly, find a good job for yourself and then immediately leave the job.

Amit

Hi Hemaharish, I passed through the same situation a few days back. Based on my experience, I suggest you talk to your boss and discuss the situation. Ask if there is anything wrong from your side. I am sure he will appreciate your initiative, and things will be resolved. Otherwise, there are other options available for you.

Regards,
Aarna K

"When the going gets tough, the tough get going." I applaud your hard work and innocence in understanding the mindset of your boss. It is always better to delve into what is wrong before taking any drastic steps. Firstly, approach your boss and ask him to be honest; I'm sure things will work in your favor. God willing.

Sit with your boss and prepare a "Give and Get" session with him. Make your action plan accordingly and self-review. Maybe your working style improvements will impress him. Everyone wants a new system and integration; somehow, this is the reason. Today, competition is very high; maybe he wants some skill upgrading in your style of presentation. Take immediate action.

Thanks,
Rashmi

Hi,

I'll suggest you have a conversation with your boss first before considering another job because in this competitive market, shifting to a new job may not be the right decision.

Understanding Your Boss's Behavior

You say you have received a low increment and that your boss is behaving differently than he used to. You are confused about what to do next. Being with your boss, you are not able to find out what's running in his head. How do you expect people on this forum to predict?

Not to underestimate the answers given by others, but why is it that no one is interested in knowing the core issue? Hema Harish, you need to discuss these two issues with your boss:

a) Why is the boss acting differently nowadays? Is it because there is a mistake on your part, or a rectification that you need to make? Or does it have anything to do with your performance, your relationship with other colleagues, or has someone said something about you that needs to be sorted out?

b) After this, ask why you received a low hike in salary.

Not just you, most people work because they need money to run the show. So if you feel you need to know why you have not received an increment, ask your boss about it. Probably, he misunderstood an issue and decided that you are wrong until you spoke to him about it.

And by the way, I googled, there is no software to guess a boss's mind. The best software solution is "Ask him yourself"! 

Good Luck

Dear Hemaharish, as advised by others, conduct a self-analysis and review your job description to identify any areas where you might not be performing well. If you don't find any issues, be aware that there may be someone influencing your boss negatively for one reason or another. It may be time to start looking for new opportunities. By the way, change presents us with more challenges to move forward. With your experience, you don't need to fear change.

Best regards,
Salim