Sometimes, it can seem as though your boss is intent on starting arguments with you at every turn. Everything you do can seem to set them off, to the point that you are avoiding having any kind of contact with them to avoid the potential conflict.

When it comes to any arguments, you know that nothing good will ever come out of it. Each side wants to win, and no one is going to be willing to back down. And, in the case of your boss, they have even more at stake if they give in – because they will feel their authority is being challenged.

If you are already in a hostile workplace, it is a good idea for you to try avoiding arguments the best you can. How? It isn’t always easy to do, but here are some suggestions for you to try.

Actually listen to what the other person is saying. I know that it might be hard, especially if you aren’t the one who has initiated the argument, (bosses are very often the ones who will start it). But, you need to understand exactly what they are saying if you want to be able to respond rationally, and show that you are not going to be baited into arguing with them.

Don’t add more controversy into the mix. Responding with statements that will make your boss more agitated, like “You don’t know what you are talking about”, are never a good idea. Don’t give them the feeling that you are confronting them, which will only get them on the defensive. Even if you don’t agree with them – sometimes you just have to be the bigger person, no matter how difficult that may be.

Take over the situation. This does take some skill, but it works wonderfully. When your boss has become totally out of control, simply flip the situation over. Stop them dead in their tracks by saying their name, (addressing them however you normally do), and then ask them to clarify what they are saying because you are having a hard time following them. This can sometimes help them to calm down a bit and speak more rationally. However, it won’t be easy for you to stay calm during this process, but if you can do it, you will get much better results.

If you can learn how to avoid arguments in your workplace, you might just be able to tolerate being around your boss more. Knowing that you are not going to be baited into an argument may make them realize that it is not worth their time.

However, you should always know your legal rights, especially if you do feel that your workplace environment is hostile. Some bosses will just keep trying to start a fight, no matter what you do to avoid the argument – and in these situations, you need to be prepared to learn what your rights are, especially if you feel that your job is being threatened.

Emilee has worked in a hostile workplace, and feels that it is very important for everyone to have effective coping strategies - and to understand their legal rights. She offers a free guide which goes over some of these concepts, along with a review of the guide that outlines employee rights, and regulations which are in place to protect them, at HostileWorkplaceEnvironment.com