How to handle a resentful staff member? I was recently promoted and am now her boss; I was her equal before.?

Question

I have longest departmental tenure (over 5 years). She has 6 mts. Doesn't appear she got much training prior to my promotion, and is resentful about that but that was not my fault. She acts defiant at times and flip. I've tried to help her but she doesn't seem appreciative. She seems to resent me; she always tells me about her Grad School degree. I'm not impressed, however. It has no bearing on the work she does either. So, any ideas?

Answer 1

At the end of the day you are the boss and she is your employee. Keep a professional relationship. No need to bring emotions into play. If she is being resentful and defiant then deal with it appropriately i.e. if your company allows you to give verbal warnings and writing associates up then by all mean take that first step. You need to make her realize that her actions have consequences. But don't make it seem personal and don't let her see that her attitude effects you. See if that works. :)

Answer 2

This is not easy. My suggestion is to speak with her one on one. Be truthful. Tell her that management gave you the promotion and that you are not in the loop as far as why she did not get it; however, you need her as part of a productive team and hope that she will accept the situation. You might also let her know that if she is a productive and cooperative member of staff you will help any way you can to further her career.

Answer 3

Your the boss now and this is not a friend of yours. Treat her like any other person that has to report to you and if she is disrespectful - write her up.

Answer 4

Call her in and discuss it tackfully. As her boss you can discuss her career path and training opportunities. Also, discuss her attitude and how you can help.

Answer 5

yes, just give her a job that she is quilified to do, then thank her and give her more work...as a boss you don't have to make friends