Last week, we talked about 3 difficult workplace situations and what to say in them. Here’s a look at 4 more.
Situation #4: A nearby co-worker talks loudly…all the time.
While you may want to peek your head out of your cubicle and bellow “can you please shut up!?,” that’s not the most productive route to take. Your co-worker will likely be offended and may even become passive aggressive as a result.
The reality is that they may not even realize that they’re being annoying – and that their noise level is impacting your ability to get work done. So instead ask them politely to keep their voice down. By being nice, your co-worker is more likely to respond positively to your request.
However, if your co-worker is a frequent offender who seems unable to speak softly, then you may need to get your manager involved.
Situation #5: A co-worker asks you for extra help…constantly.
It’s one thing if you have a new co-worker and you’re tasked with training them. Then expect lots of questions and requests for help.
If, on the other hand, you have a co-worker who asks for help so often you feel like you’re doing their job for them, then it’s time to put a stop to it. If they can’t survive on their own, then perhaps they shouldn’t be there. Whatever the case, you shouldn’t be the one always left propping them up…especially if it’s to the detriment of your own work.
So next time your co-worker asks for help, simply tell them you have too much work of your own to do.
Situation #6: A co-worker makes a big mistake…and blames it on you.
Mistakes happen. It’s a fact of life at work. However, when a big mistake happens, and you get unfairly blamed, it can have a negative impact on your career.
So if a co-worker lies about you, then confront him or her calmly and privately so they get the picture you won’t tolerate future deceptions. If it was a big lie that will impact your boss’s impression of you, then talk privately with your boss, as well. Don’t get angry and point fingers, though; just offer proof that the mistake wasn’t yours and offer a plan to help fix it. Bosses love solutions…not problems.
In the future, when working with this co-worker, keep a meticulous record of your conversations with them. Always ask them to send you information and communications via email so you have a paper trail.
Situation #7: You just found a great new job…now you have to tell your boss.
Regardless of how you feel about your soon-to-be former employer, it’s important to leave your position on good terms with them. You never know whom you might cross paths with in future Dade County jobs you might hold.
So don’t barge into your boss’s office, gleefully exclaiming that you got another job, then brag about it to your co-workers for the next two weeks. Instead, simply state that you’ve taken another job and ask your boss what you can do to help make the transition as smooth as possible. Your boss may ask you to leave immediately, or ask for help in training your replacement. Whatever the case, handle it with grace and dignity.
And if you haven’t found a great new job, but you’re looking for one, contact Future Force Personnel. We work with some of the top employers in the area and can give you access to a variety of rewarding jobs in Dade County….many times, before they’re even advertised!