A reader writes:
Dear PseudoHR,
We have a problem employee at my office. I work in a professional atmosphere, for the most part. The expected professional behavior is different depending on your boss & your position. That said, the problem employee works in a position that doesn’t require much intellectual professionalism (or a professional wardrobe either). It does require a modicum of professional behavior. However, said employee’s behavior and manners go beyond that of crude & inappropriate. The employee insists on discussing sexual topics, makes rude jokes and biting comments, and is overall a very loud disruption. Since management sees her as cheap labor that would cost more to replace, she’s gotten away with slaps on her wrists. New employees are starting to complain about the problem employee. While my concerns (with this employee) are well documented, the newer employees are hesitant to file a complaint. They just want it to stop, but don’t want it to be a big deal. Well, this employee would make it the deal of the century. What advice can I give my new colleague? You should know:
1) I have a history with this employee (that is very bad for the problem employee – but not me)
2). I’ve told my shy colleague, this will continue unless she tells her supervisor (& if nothing is done talk to his supervisor).
3) Do not go over your supervisor’s head without discussing it with him first.
4) Document, if & when, the problem employee participates in any type of retaliation.
Sincerely,
Emma Barrassed
Emma, Why is your management team over looking this behavior? Given the number of qualified candidates in the unemployment line, it should be easy to replace this person. My advice, the employees that are offended by this behavior need to do two things. One, tell this person they don’t care to hear about her sexual escapades, rude jokes or biting comments. Two, document and report the behavior to HR or their immediate supervisor. Have these people check the employee handbook for the complaint procedures but the typical procedure is HR/supervisor and then the person that bosses their supervisor around. If the newbies have made a complaint and they are getting ignored, take it up the chain.
It’s very possible that this person is completely unaware of her behavior and how it comes across to others. And she will continue to be unaware if not told.
Anyone else has advice for Emma?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Unfortunately, this kind of situation happens frequently. Employees want a situation to change, but don’t want to get involved. The employee who is offended either needs to address the concern through the proper channels or deal with it. There is no in between.
I think your advice is right on the money. Let the woman know her comments are not appreciated and ask her to stop. If she doesn’t stop then take it up with HR or your/her supervisor. If still nothing is done, keep going up the chain of command.
My sense from the letter is that no one has actually walked up to her and said, “What you are saying is totally inappropriate for the office. I’d appreciate it if you would stop.” It can be done politely, professionally and firmly. This gives her the opportunity to make a change. If she chooses NOT to after you’ve said something, then it’s time to go up the chain of command as it states in your company policy folder. Oh, and make a photocopy of the company policy regarding her infractions and give it to her so she can see it is clearly against company policy to speak in such a manner. She may not have read it.
Only other thing is to keep notes of exactly what she is saying, to whom, date and time, and what you have done about it. Good luck!
Love the advice! I wish I could walk right up to some employees and tell them not to speak. Okay, okay…that’s not exactly the advice. It would be nice though! lol
Had a similar situation at my last job. She just kept it up until about 90% of the people were annoyed and then they fired her. Why in the world do supervisors think it’s okay to have 25% of the people upset with someone and just sit by and watch!?!??