How To Beware (and Aware) Of “The Devil Wears Prada” Boss

By April Masini
November 1, 2006 (Posted at 9:14 pm)

Many, upon graduation from college, take their first “real” job with hopes, dreams and high expectations, only to wake up to a nightmare and the boss from hell.

1. Why are they so mean and nasty?

– Bosses, like the fashion editor in The Devil Wears Prada appear to be mean and nasty, because there is an expectation on the part of employees of what their boss should be like, and how the relationship should be.
– The boss in the Devil Wears Prada loved fashion more than people. It is an honor to work for these bosses, but it is also a challenge if you have different values. This is really just a compatibility issue.

2. Potential warning signs to look out for during the interview

– Do your homework before you apply for a job, interview for the job and take the job.
–Research the company, the employees, and find out why people leave the job.
– Temper your expectations to what you learn.

3. Tips/advice for working.

– Know your own strengths and weaknesses.
– Be clear on what your boss wants from you and what you are able to do for your boss.
– Don’t make it personal.
– Many women are guilty of accusing bosses of being “mean”. They’d do better to realize that their boss has expectations that they can or cannot live up to.