The Two Faces of Management: How Bosses Can Seem Like Wolves in Sheep's Clothing (2024)

As employees, we often have bosses or managers who are tasked with leading and guiding us in our work. In many cases, these individuals present a professional and composed demeanor to the larger organization and to the public. However, behind closed doors or in private interactions, some managers may exhibit completely different behavior - one that is rude, unprofessional, or even abusive.

This phenomenon, where a person presents a false or misleading image to the outside world, is often referred to as "wolves in sheep's clothing." In the context of the workplace, it can be particularly damaging when a boss or manager adopts this kind of two-faced behavior.

On the surface, a boss who is a wolf in sheep's clothing may seem like a supportive and helpful leader. They may be skilled at PR and presenting a positive image to the outside world. But in private, they may be prone to outbursts of anger, engage in verbal abuse, or make unreasonable demands of their employees. This kind of inconsistency can be confusing and demoralizing for the people who work under them.

In some cases, this behavior may even be intentional, as some managers may believe that they can get better results from their employees through fear and intimidation. But this approach is ultimately short-sighted, as it can lead to high employee turnover, low morale, and a toxic work environment.

So, what can employees do if they find themselves working under a boss who is a wolf in sheep's clothing? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. In some cases, it may be possible to address the issue directly with the manager, but this can be risky, as it may lead to retaliation. In other cases, it may be necessary to seek help from HR or to report the behavior to higher-ups in the organization.

Ultimately, the best way to deal with a wolf in sheep's clothing is to be aware of the signs and to be prepared to take action if necessary. This may mean finding a new job or speaking up about the behavior, even if it is difficult to do so. No one should have to endure abuse or mistreatment in the workplace, and it is up to each of us to stand up for ourselves and for our colleagues.