Dear Barb:
I work with someone who is driving me nuts. She is negative, disrupts our office and never takes responsibility when her deals blow up. She has worked for the company for over 15 years and the owners turn a blind eye when we complain. Two of my co-workers are going to start their own firm. I feel like I should tell my owner, but how do I do that without jeopardizing my job. I love my owners, but I’m probably going to leave with my co-workers. What would you advise me to do?
Anonymous in Houston
Dear Anonymous:
It sounds like you are caught between a rock and a hard place. It also sounds like you like your owners, and it is only this one person who is ruining your office. You stated that you could jeopardize your job if you approached them. You also stated that you’re probably going to quit.
You need to approach your owners and talk to them after hours. You stand to lose more by not approaching them.
Let your owners know how much money they are losing as a result of this person. Do your best to leave the emotion out of your discussion and stick to facts that can be quantified. Provide specific examples showing what this negativity is costing them.
If your owners react positively, you may help solidify their current team and they may decide to make obviously difficult decisions. If they do not react in a positive manner, you have options.
Often business owners are loyal to the employees who have been loyal to them. Your owners may not realize how this one employee is limiting the success of their business. As a business owner, I would be grateful if you approached me.
Barbara J. Bruno, CPC, CTS
