Struggling with Office Politics and Credit-Stealing Boss: Should I Speak Up or Move On?

Dear Seniors, I am working with one of the textile companies where three years ago, I joined as an EA to the MD, and then I changed my profile to HR. I have rejoined this company as an Executive - HR, and in that role, I have to report to a lady who joined after me (around six months ago) as a Senior Manager.

Challenges with Management and Office Politics

She engages in a lot of office politics; within two months, she ensured that we do not have to meet with the management. After that, she takes credit for all the positive outcomes, attributing them to her efforts, and blames her team for any negative outcomes. She presents us in a negative light to the management, claiming credit for everything I accomplish.

She works from home and does not respond promptly to many queries, leaving us waiting for long hours. I am unsure how to handle this situation. Do you think I should discuss this with the management, or would it be better to seek a new opportunity elsewhere?

Please advise.

After reading your post, I would like to suggest the following:

1. Please arrange a meeting with her, including your team members, and clearly present your problems and difficulties without sounding negative or blaming her. Prepare minutes of the meeting and circulate them to her and the other team members.

2. Always remain courteous and vigilant. Do not snap at her. Understand her behavioral patterns to plan your next course of action accordingly.

3. Please do not malign her as it may lead to problems.

4. Does your company have grievance-handling mechanisms? If yes, still, arrange a meeting with her as suggested above.

5. Keep her informed about ongoing challenges faced by you and the team in case of delayed replies from her.

6. Escalating the matter hastily may backfire, so please be patient. If you escalate, do it to find a solution, not to complain about her.

7. Find a mentor in the organization who can guide you on such matters.

8. Always maintain proper documentation and evidence of the work done by you and your team to demonstrate your contributions in appraisals and to the management.

9. Quitting should be the last resort. By helping your boss succeed in achieving company and departmental goals, you will earn her trust.

Hope this helps.