What to Do if the Boss Threatens You?

Analyze the Threat

• Take a step back and analyze the threat. Once you have a clear head, document your perception of the threatening circumstance. If your boss wasn't serious and is typically off-kilter in his comments, you may want to meet privately with him to express how his actions made you feel. Continued threats not carried out are probably not serious and may be a tactic your boss is using for his own agenda.
  
  

Investigate

• Gather information from your coworkers by asking your boss' direct reports if they have experienced threats from your boss. Ask how they handled the situation, and you may gain some valuable feedback from them. Gauge if they see this as an ongoing problem and if they would be willing to support you in further action.
  
  

Report the Incident

• Approach your boss' boss to explain the threatening circumstance. She may have no idea how her subordinate treats his employees. Your boss' boss should listen to your concerns and inform you how she will handle the situation. She may give your boss a verbal warning or consult human resources to formally document your concern. She may also have you report to a different supervisor and minimize your contact with the current supervisor.
  
  

Role of Human Resources

• Your human resources department is versed in dealing with employee relations issues. Provide the department with documentation of the threat including the words and actions of your boss and where and when the threat occurred. The human resources department will investigate and likely take actions, including written warning, suspension or termination, depending on the severity of the threat and if there is corroboration from others or admittance on your boss' part.
  
  

External Action

• Consult with an employment attorney or file a police report if the threat was violent or illegal in nature. This is an extreme step that you would take only if you felt you or your family was at risk for serious harm based on the threat. The police will investigate and may decide to press charges. Your attorney will advise if you have a harassment case and if you should pursue a lawsuit.