Become a better leader without being a jerk with this Boston-bred, California-chilled Leadership Advisor, Writer, & Podcast Host
The Jerks
Hello Reader,
The Jerks
There are two types of jerk bosses. Some don’t know they are jerks, and then there are those who relish being jerks.
Sometimes, people ask me, “How do I deal with a boss who’s a jerk.” Of course, the “right” answer is a typical consultant answer; it depends.
There are many factors to consider, like how imbalanced your relationship with them is. They likely have economic leverage over you, but you have the skills to neutralize or combat that.
Are they a nuisance, roll your eyes kind of a jerk, or totalitarian and abusive to the point you cry yourself to sleep at night?
Is it occasional? Usually, they’re fine, but anytime you request PTO, they treat it as a personal affront.
Are they brilliant but lack common civility?
The symptoms are virtually limitless. What you must not do is compromise your integrity and dignity. You must set the example, as hard as it can be, of an acceptable way to be treated by others.
Secondly, if you’re trying to avoid confrontation or passive aggressiveness is your jam, leave a copy of the book, "GIVE A DAMN! How to Lead Better" in the break room, conference room, or — their desk. It’s a small book with pictures and big-sized lettering, perfect for adults who act like children. To be clear, that’s not the book’s intended audience, but it sure can help.
Karl Bimshas | Karl Bimshas Consulting
Become a better leader without being a jerk with this Boston-bred, California-chilled Leadership Advisor, Writer, & Podcast Host
November 30, 2025 Reflections on Leadership What Angers People About Leadership People get angry at leaders when those leaders break the social contract—failing to provide accountability, clarity, fairness, and consistent behavior that matches their stated values. Continue reading → From Fog to Focus: The Leadership Guidance Review Leaders can break free from uncertainty and blind spots, reclaim clarity, confidence, and control, and transform their leadership through a focused, actionable...
Hi Reader, If you want to strengthen your clarity, confidence, and control, I’ve just released a new way to explore more than 30 titles from Karl Bimshas Consulting. These Four Reading Paths help you quickly identify where to begin and what to read next—whether you want to regain focus, improve accountability, rebuild motivation, or learn through stories. The Leadership Clarity Path - See where you are. Know where you’re going. The Accountability & Leadership Performance Path - Lead with...
November 23, 2025 Reflections on Leadership Courage Is a Leadership Requirement, Not a Preference Democracy needs leaders willing to defend uncomfortable expression; censorship may feel easier, but it’s a principled failure that fuels authoritarian drift. Continue reading → Better Leaders Aren’t Absent; They’re Overlooked Decades of research and real-world outcomes confirm what any effective leader already knows: women deliver exceptional leadership results. Continue reading → The Leadership...