What to do about immature co-workers?

Question

I work in a professional setting, yet some co-workers act like they're still in high school. Two women who sit very near me spend the majority of their day acting like snotty 16 year olds - they're both in their mid 40's! They gossip and make fun of others. I try to ignore them, but they are terribly distracting with their constant whispering and giggling.

Any suggestions on how to handle them? Should I tell their boss? Should I tell Human Resources because this goes against our code of ethics?

Answer 1

This is a common problem. You happen to be a mature person and those around you are immature. You cannot stop them from talking and giggling. I would bet they are gossips too. The only thing to do is to realize they are un-evolved personalities and tune them out. Try different methods like listening to music on a headset or just learning to consider them like background hum of a A/C or fan. They have evolved as best they can, so for your own sake have compassion for them and also, DO NOT get sucked into their dramas. Serenity now!

Answer 2

I had the same problem where I used to work. The problem was that I could not get any evidence against them, so it was my word against theirs. You will probably be facing the same thing.

The best solution is to simply ignore them. You can't change them, and people like that will focus their energy on anyone who tries to stop their fun. Right now, they'll probably only gossip about you. If you try to turn them in, they'll do things to make your work life miserable. That's what the "popular girls" did to me, and I had to find a new job.

BTW - those "girls" were in their late 40's and early 50's. Mentally, they hadn't left high school, and they never will. You can not change them. Those that take sick pleasure in looking down on others and spreading gossip have a mental disorder and no reprimand from their boss will change their behavior. They need professional help.

I'm sorry to say that the only solution is to either stay under their radar or find a new job. Trust me, their boss already knows what they're doing.

Answer 3

If you've tried ignoring them
they are simply distracting,
then I would politely confront them
about what's bothering you.

They will do one of two things:
1. tone it down when around you.
2. add you onto the list of people to gossip about.

If the latter should occur,
go to the supervisor of your department.
Explain the situation
and how you've attempted to solve it.
Your supervisor should take you seriously
and will talk with the two women.
If things don't get better,
keep consulting higher management until:

1. the women finally get the point and start acting their age
2. get moved to a different department
3. get fired

I doubt they will get fired,
but there is no need for negativity in the workplace.
Good luck! :)

Answer 4

First off I'd write everything down in a note pad. No one sees this note pad. Don't put it on your computer.

Whether you go to hr, or need a promotion or if they pick a fight with you - you will need this book later on.

If it is really bad go to hr or your boss. But if those women have more clout than you I'd grin and bear it.

Answer 5

I would not aggravate the situation by including your boss. i would personally and respecfully let them know that their ranting is uncomfortable and disrupting your work, and that they need to take it elsewhere. If you sound serious enough, they will then take a break and gossip in their own space at their leisure.

Answer 6

Report them or else the other guy said, get headphones and listen to Yahoo music.

Answer 7

There will all ways be someone at every job who is there to make everyone else miserable. I would report these people because I am sure everyone would benifit.

Answer 8

You should have rules against repeating gossip. Such as you are only allowed to say it one time and not repeat.

Answer 9

If it's possible, ask your boss if you can move to another spot.
If not, get some headphones.

Answer 10

Just say "Ladies, it's time to leave high school behind." Maybe that will help.