“Getting Along” is an advice column to help you tackle common — and messy — people problems, by workplace expert Amy Gallo.
Getting Along: My Boss Doesn’t Trust Me
HBR’s advice columnist offers three research-backed approaches to try.
March 27, 2023
Karen Moskowitz/Getty Images
Summary.
Working for an insecure manager can be incredibly demotivating. What should you do if you think your manager doesn’t trust you? In this advice column, workplace expert Amy Gallo answers a question from a reader who’s in the thick of this situation. They feel like they’re constantly walking on eggshells to ensure they don’t set their boss off — and they’re not sure what to do next. Amy offers three research-backed approaches to try. The first one is about signaling that you’re not a rival; the second is about building trust; and the third involves talking to your boss directly about the situation.
New!
HBR Learning
Managing Your Boss Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Managing Your Boss. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Build a productive partnership with your most important stakeholder.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Managing Your Boss Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Managing Your Boss. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Build a productive partnership with your most important stakeholder.