How to Deal With the Boss Who Ignores You

by Cynthia Measom
A busy boss often ignores people who don't present an immediate need.


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If you take the time to imagine a typical day at work through your boss's eyes, you may come closer to understanding why he ignores you, according to Lynn Taylor, author of Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant. It could be that he's overwhelmed with all of his other responsibilities. Another possibility is that he's displeased with your performance. Either way, confront the issue. Once you spend some time talking to your boss, you can identify the root of the problem and begin to make the necessary changes.


Identify some areas in which you can improve in your job. Create a plan to improve in each area. This will help you prepare yourself for possible constructive criticism from your boss.


Schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss your current performance and ask if there are any areas where he sees room for improvement. If he mentions one or more of the areas you identified, say that you agree and give him a summary of how you're going to improve. If he mentions something you didn't identify, consider it carefully and tell him that you will come up with a plan to address it, and follow through.


Volunteer to help with large projects or presentations that may overwhelm your boss due to all of his other responsibilities. He will appreciate that you asked, and you will increase your value to him and the company.


Send your boss email updates about your progress on current projects. Include a compelling subject line to prompt him to open it. Write short, concise emails that contain lively language and bullet points for easier reading. A busy boss is more likely to read something like this than a long, rambling email with large blocks of text.


  • If you've scheduled a meeting with your boss, send him an email reminder several hours before as a courtesy if your company's appointment software does not include reminders.
  • Find a way to weave personal details into your interactions with your boss to help him see you as a person. For instance, mention a trip you took with your family or an aspiration you have. The more he knows about you, the harder it will be for him to ignore you.
  • It's possible that you are misreading the reason why your boss is ignoring you. For example, it could be an issue with you not fitting into company culture. Tell someone else in the company, whom you trust, your concerns. Ask her why she thinks the boss ignores you. The person may offer you some helpful insight.


  • Never become aggressive toward your boss because you feel he is ignoring you. Approach him in an assertive, but polite, manner and you will get much better results.

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