What should I do about this work problem that involves being caught between two supervisors?

Hmm, this is a game you can only lose. (Getting cauight between two superiors.)

I don’t think it would have been a bad idea to say to the managing partner that “Immediate Supervisor” had asked you to do the task or to do it that specific way. Simply make sure there is no tone or extra information as you say it. That is why your supervisor gets paid the big bucks—to take the flak from the big cheese if there is any.

I also would have said something to my supervisor. “Mr. X just told me ‘Y’ regarding the Z you asked me to do. Now what?”

Your best and safest course is to be honest and avoid any taking sides or editorializing in this political battle. You don’t have a dog in the hunt, but you could end up as collateral damage.

Good luck.

You can’t ignore it. You have to tell them to get their acts together. Marina’s suggestions are a good way to do that.

“Of course, I say nothing to the big boss and nothing to my immediate supervisor.”

Well, you should have said something, as long as it could be done in a factual, non-judgmental way. For example, to Big Boss “I’m sorry, sir. Direct Boss asked me to do this. What should I do if this should come up again?” and then to Direct Boss “Pardon the interruption, sir, but Big Boss says I should not have done this task. What should I do next time this comes up?”

^What they said.^

Saying nothing is a sure way to be turned into a ping-pong ball in their game.

I say let Little Boss know that you covered for him by taking the bullet directed by Big Boss. If Little Boss is offended, he cannot do anything, otherwise Big Boss would find out he was to blame for poor leadership and misdirection of subordinates. At least he knows you aren’t his personal “ping-pong ball” and that you are smart enough to play the game too. Just remember… it’s not what you say, it’s how and when you say it.

GL

sorry for borrowing your metaphor aprilsimnel.

@alossforwords – De nada!