My boss shouts at me, how should I handle her?

I work with a super loud boss. She is hyperactive and has no problem shouting instructions from the other end of the office. The problem is, I feel offended and frustrated about this. I have tried to be patient but I am losing it. How best can I tell her what I feel without coming off as arrogant and offensive? Sheila

Shouting bosses psychologically believe that they only get things done by screaming. Ironically, most either have a yelling superior or were nurtured or terrified by one at one point of their careers. Fixing your dilemma should be contingent on why she yells at you in the first place and then navigate a clear reaction to it. Are you at fault? Is she generally frustrated?
Whether her concerns are legitimate or frivolous, you can diffuse the situation by requesting for a private meeting. Remain calm, keep it a matter-of-fact and explain yourself without blabbering on. Avoid vindictiveness or pettiness in your speech.
Your opening remarks should begin by owning up to your mistakes. Let her know you understand your mistakes and are sorry, and will work as hard to fix them. This is the only card shouting bosses always have in their arsenal. Diffusing it helps you pin them down and force them to listen to you. Chances are that she will soften and feel bad about coming down on you so hard if you are repentant and willing to fix your mistakes.
Once you go past this stage, you will definitely be in control of the meeting and your boss. Calmly explain why her yelling bothers you. There is a huge chance that pointing out the problem will embarrass her into being apologetic.
Conclude by showing initiative in moving forward by offering a solution. A creative solution often throws a yeller off balance and makes her stop and consider the approach that may not have occurred to her.

Solomon Muhiirwa
Human Resource Consultant
[email protected]