Would you complain to your bosses manager regarding your supervisors incompetence?

Question

I have worked at some places for some real incompetent managers. My supervisors actions and decisions really caused the organization harm and made my job much more difficult and limited my effectiveness. This was not just a question of style or approach but true incompetence.

Is it a good idea to go to the bosses boss and complain?

Answer 1

I am going to make two presumptions based on your question that will help you see what it sounds like:

(a) your managers are incompetent because you know how their jobs are to be done better than they do;

(b) your effectiveness as an employee depends on someone else, and not you.

This isn't criticism of your question--it's how your managers' supervisors are going to SEE the complaint when you make it. So to answer your question, is it a good idea? I think not.

There's only one situation in which you could complain without the above consequences: if you are asked to do something illegal, immoral or humiliating by your manager. Then, go right ahead and complain to his supervisor, and do it as soon as possible. There is an unwritten "statute of limitations" on complaining about a supervisor or manager--if you don't do it right away higher-ups consider your silence "implied consent". It may not be right, or fair, but that's office politics and business.

Answer 2

mind your own business

Answer 3

Not if you want to keep your job.

In a perfect world, you would only be seen as pointing out a flaw.

In the real world you will be seen as someone that does not respect the hierarchy. Your boss' boss will not reward you for this.

Also, if you can see it, you can be pretty sure your boss' superiors can.

Keep your mouth shut, and await the outcomes.

Answer 4

Its a very slippery slope.  You have to approach it with kid gloves.  Try to find a reason to be around the person you need to talk to (same restaurant, outside smoke break, lunch room...etc).  The important part (once you get talking to them) is to try to steer the direction of the conversation very carefully to make it seem like they are the ones that asked you and "forced it" out of you.  

Make it seem like you are very uneasy about "tattling" and don't want to be branded as insubordinate.

I have had to do this and it ended up with me being promoted very quickly.

*I had to add this part*

Above all...before you do ANYTHING...MAKE SURE YOU ARE RIGHT!!!!!

Answer 5

only during your exit interview