Hi Lala,

Managers are the worst! There’s something about being in a management position that brings out the worst in people. (Apologies to managers who happen to read this).

The good news is that HR (and everyone) know what a jerk he is. Who knows? Maybe he was moved to his current team in the past because someone else had reported him to HR previously?

It’s good to have allies around you. So if this happens to you again (by anyone) all they’ll hear after their power play is you and your friends cracking up as soon as he leaves the room. Bullies HATE being laughed at! In fact, even if you are the only one that’s laughing, that gives everyone else permission to smirk and roll their eyes at him even if they dare not say anything to his face. Give him a nickname. Say “Hello, Sunshine!” whenever you pass him. If he says anything to you, reply with, “If you say so, Sunshine!” Remember to give him a good wink.

Another trick is to say, “I notice you always get cranky when you’re hungry. Do you want a donut? No, Sunshine, seriously, we insist!”

Best,

Inky