"If you declare war on your boss, 90% of the time you're going to lose, because your boss has more leverage than you do," says Marie McIntyre, an Atlanta-based coach and author of Secrets to Winning at Office Politics. In case you feel compelled to try to be part of the victorious 10%, here are some tips on how to oust your boss.
Build on your strengths.
If you have a track record as a producer and you are well-liked within your company, you can use those attributes as leverage against your boss's position.
Gather allies.
Organize with colleagues to make a case against your boss. Your approach will be far more effective if you make it as part of a group.
Instead of complaining, make a business case.
Keep your emotions in check and coolly detail how the boss is costing the institution money.
Network with managers above your boss's level.
Curry favor with senior management, and demonstrate that you are capable of doing your boss's job.
Exercise patience.
Most institutions do not want to have to let senior managers go. The process can take years.
Know that the odds are against you.
Coaches, consultants and lawyers agree that it's extremely difficult to oust your superior.