I'm currently dealing with a contractor just like your boss. It seems to me that it's part of the macho persona for some guys to act like they are the only person in the world, either that or their mums and dads brought them up that way.

My system is to calm myself down first, then calmly and with a smile to state there is an issue. Because seems to me that neither of these guys are antagonistic or unlikeable, just that it's their habit to act stupid!!

Of course stating there is an issue doesn't cure a lifetime habit but it does work it's way into the consciousness, so that next time they do their behaviour they have a nudge inside that tells them that they are being unreasonable.

It's exasperating but seems to me that the nudges keep the good feeling in the relationship but also externalise the fact that someone is acting dysfuctionally. They also make it easier for me to assert my boundaries and say no.

I came from a family where people were disciplined about emotions up to a point but then let rip destructively. I want to learn to maintain the pleasure of good relationships but also not to run my life by other people's dysfunctions - have plenty of my own.

Good luck whatever seems to you to be the best way forward!!!