Another work day goes by. You’re thinking about how disconnected your boss is from the operations of the business. Through casual and business conversations you begin to realize he really knows very little about what is actually going on. It’s embarrassing and irritating to have to constantly fill the blanks to keep him informed, and suddenly your respect for him diminishes.

Everyone has someone within the chain of command who knows less than we do about the business or work that we do every day. The signs of this lack of knowledge seep out gradually. Sometimes it’s blatant, like the proposals he makes when leading a meeting. The same proposals that came and went when they were tested out over a year ago. Maybe you and the entire department pick up a trail of clueless conversations from her that let on he has been far removed from the reality of the work place for a long, long time.

What should you do if you believe your boss is unqualified to manage or lead? How do you prepare your own mindset to cope with this, and continue to improve your own work performance?

The work place has a constant energy of give and take, for both the boss and the subordinate. Maybe this is temporary and he could benefit from classes or a little extra support to bring him up to speed. Because your career development is important, do your best to grow and learn from those around you, even if the boss cannot keep pace in his own arena. By producing excellent work and occasionally asking your boss for advice, it will appear you respect and seek her knowledge. By staying humble, you will stay out of trouble.

If you’re wide awake, take this as an exit sign to grow. Your boss is not leading you towards greatness and the deeper truth inside you knows it. Move along and find a new leadership position with a boss that will challenge you to be your best.  Maybe you have reached your potential with this employer and realize you are working in a very limited learning environment, and now is the prime time to strike out on your own.  Becoming your own boss is one of the most rewarding leaps you may ever make.  Get started today.