Tips on initiating constructive conversations with your boss and where to seek help and support over poor leadership, including your own union, human resources or a Freedom to Speak Up guardian

What makes a bad boss? Bullying behaviour, certainly, but also a tendency to avoid conflict or a failure to address issues that matter to staff. Other bosses, unable to delegate, may micromanage or constantly undermine a nurse’s best efforts. Being disorganised, communication failures, having favourites – there is a long list of traits and behaviours that can limit a leader’s effectiveness.