A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses: Dealing with Bullies, Idiots, Back-Stabbers, and Other Managers from Hell

Chapter 26. Drunk, Disorderly, and Untouchable

When a boss has a drinking problem and becomes abusive, the situation generally is taken care of once top management finds out about it. The boss is told to shape up or ship out, and sometimes she is sent off for some management training and shown ways to better relate to employees. The problem is solved.

But what happens if the boss’s immediate supervisor doesn’t want to do anything because she is trying to protect the boss for some reason. Perhaps there is a personal connection, or perhaps the boss may have some damaging information about the supervisor. The source of appeal may be cut off, particularly if top management takes a hands-off approach or is located in another city, state, or country. ...