Workplace stress

[Keepcalmcanyou]

Hi,
had an anxiety attack yesterday (wfh) after new boss unexpectedly sent some negative feedback and an unachievable target (typical of performance management). I have been a top performer for many years including last one but the vibe is really off and I don’t feel safe. Other team mates feel the same but they may be tougher than me. Senior leaders hired the person knowing their reputation for bullying, informal concerns were raised by others. I am very confident I can get another job quickly (1-2 months?) but the thought of dealing with new boss in the meantime makes me feel hugely emotional. What would you do?

This person known for bullying is your new boss now?

My boss and I dont get on. Our relationship has completely broken down, there is no bullying but I am overlooked for projects or insight and boss is completely uncontactable, cancells meetings when I have booked them/121s when its clear I am going to say I can do more/I have a new strategy/new project/ideas they just get shelved.

Its made me feel completely worthless tbh so I know it sucks when work is crap.

How did your boss deliver the feedback? Was the feedback fair or unjustified?

Sounds like you have worked there for a while I would say start looking for something new if it doesnt serve you any more- I know I am!

And to add- dealing with your boss... how much contact do you have? As i said mine pretty much ignores me so I have decided I wont be reaching out with anything to them apart from bare minimum and when I secure a new role ill issue my notice via email. Can you limit contact as much as possible? Only communicate via email so there is a trail of what they say to you?

Your team mates probably won't be any stronger than you, but have just decided to suck-it-up. In no way am I suggesting you should do this.
However, how confident do you feel to challenge (in a professional manner) your new line manager and refer them to the SMART criteria for setting performance objectives:

SPECIFIC
MEASURABLE
AGREED
REALISTIC
TIMED

If you decide to take this stance....prepare and have all your notes at hand. Don't allow yourself to be bullied. If they are setting unrealistic objectives, ask how this can be achieved.
Stay calm. It's their responsibility to ensure that what they expect is realistic.

Good luck lass...don't jump ship without a fight. You've been a successful member of staff with a good track record.