If your boss told you to do something crazy, would you compain to his boss?

Question

I have had my share of terrible bosses who told me to do things that were just crazy, illogical, time wasting and against company policy. On occasion I have thought about going to the bosses boss and complaining but was afraid I would be fired.

So instead I followed the bosses orders and then was yelled at when the project went bad because I did what he asked and the results ended up just like I told him it would.

Has anyone used the open door policy to complain about your boss to his or her boss, at your employer, and had a good outcome?

Answer 1

always do what they say and let them know ahead of time how you feel, that way you are covered on both ends of the spectrum

Answer 2

If the boss gives you a work related project to do.. then you have to do it..  and if it goes wrong.. it's his head not yours,.. because it is his idea and you follow his orders and if the highest boss wants to know then you tell him that your manager told you to do it that way.. but you are obliged to do as he says.. if this is work related....if it is not dangerous to your health. whatever it is.. if it goes wrong.. he is answerable for that. to his boss... not you so don't worry.. if he gives you a project that goes wrong.. it's going to be his responsibility.. you tell everyone who matters that you acted under instruction from your immediate higher authority..  your manager or supervisor... xx

Answer 3

Ive always been taught to address your boss first, following the "chain of commands" so to speak. Tell him or her exactly what you feel in regards to their request. If no change/improvement is seen, THEN go to their boss.  If you go directly to their boss without going to them first, youre likely to get asked if you addressed your boss with your concerns first. If you respond "no", then they will tell you they cant help you until you do.

Answer 4

depends on what you mean by crazy.

If it's something that means danger or difficulty for someone else, then please do use the open door policy.

if you think getting coffee or filling water jugs is crazy, get a reality check - some of the juniors where I am think anything of a personal service nature is out of the question, and bother the big bosses with complaints.

use your instinct - is this important enough to cause a fuss?

Answer 5

This is a rough situation, you go over your bosses head and your doomed no matter what you do.  Make notes document everything, do as they ask as they are your boss and if you really cannot stand it, go to human resources.

Answer 6

In the Marines we are taught to follow orders, then complain up the chain of command.  I've had to do some ridiculous things b/c of orders.  I've done it many times, one piece of advice, don't complain UNLESS you have an idea for a solution.

Answer 7

You dont want to look like a whiner.