I am the deputy editor of a magazine and I am under stress because the editor, who got the job by default, is totally incompetent. She doesn't listen to anyone else, has no opinion on anything and is utterly disorganized, refusing to adhere to our plans, despite orders from the bosses. She's been doing this for over 2 years now. Our publisher, who is aware of her behaviour, apparently asked a colleague what they thought about her the other day and this person told him straight. However, she is never dealt with properly and I don't think the bosses want to face up to the fact that she can't do the job. I want to make an official complaint as I am close to quitting, but should I email, write a letter or do it face to face to be taken most seriously? Also, should I address the publisher (who manages the magazine department) or the managing directors of the company?
2007-02-23 01:04:20 · 15 answers · asked by Hotpink555 4 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Just talk to your superior!
2007-02-23 01:11:18 · answer #1 · answered by richeb 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Probably both and you should do it in person but also back it up with documented incidents in writing.
I'm wondering why she is kept other than the bosses' saving face, especially if the magazine staff is almost in revolt.
Perhaps you all need to consult with the publisher and then the director of the magazine division and voice the same complaints again with documentation of incidents.
I am sorry for your stress and hope your situation gets resolved quickly and satisfactorily.
2007-02-23 01:13:22 · answer #2 · answered by Lizzy-tish 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It appears that the Editor has a hold on some people higher up.
That included the publisher.
May be the Editor knows some secrets about the publisher or they are having an affair or something along those lines.
I am in a similar situatio at work and i cant do anything.
Thas life.
Try an handle it in a different way.
2007-02-23 01:12:21 · answer #3 · answered by **tomtom 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Does your company have a laid down complaints procedure? HR can advise you there. You should follow the procedure absolutely. If there is no procedure, complain to your boss, in writing, and give a time for action (say 7 days) without it sounding like an ultimatum. If you are not satisfied, say so and complain to his boss in the same form, and so on. Or you could leave and let them stew in their own juice. Are you quite sure of your ground though?
2007-02-23 01:33:19 · answer #4 · answered by Duffer 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would write 2 detailed letters. One for the publisher and one for the board of directors, then I would deliver them personally.
Make sure to say when you hand them in that you are very serious about the matter enclosed and you hope to hear from them as soon as possible.
By the way, as deputy editor of a magazine, you have my dream job! I hope everything works out for you.
2007-02-23 01:16:04 · answer #5 · answered by stargirl_laura 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
To do this you are best writing a letter which you hand in to your publisher in person and explain the contents face to face.
if you are worried that the action required will not happen you should forward your letter to your managing directors and tell your publisher that you have done this when you give him the letter, this will mean that he has to act.
2007-02-23 01:12:09 · answer #6 · answered by jim G 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
FOLLOW your chain of command. Send a letter to them, explaining your situation and that you are considering leaving because of the "problem". If that person can't give you a substantial remedy for the "problem", then go to the next step up he ladder. Be sure to provide the next layer of management that you go to the copies of any complaints you have made regarding "the problem".
Heck- She may have something on one of them, or be putting out on the side...How do incompetant people get and keep those positions...???
2007-02-23 01:13:03 · answer #7 · answered by juicy13500 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Start with the publisher, that way if nothing gets done you can at least point out you went to the publisher first. Doing this face to face is better as they will hopefully realise how important this is to you and how it is jeopardising the magazine. Also, do not mention you want to quit, this just sounds like you moan for the sake of moaning and use threats to get your own way. And good luck, sounds like you need to get rid of this person. x
2007-02-23 01:11:50 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
Whatever you do will look like bad grace. All to often one person speaks out when there is a problem, bit when and if management deciede to do anything, everyone else goes down the "well he/she is ok, I don't have a problem" road and you're left out on your own with egg on your face.
Be honest with yourself, is it bad grace? If you're sure then I would consider moving on. It will still reflect badly on you no matter how obnoxious or incompetent she is.
2007-02-23 01:19:19 · answer #9 · answered by Nneave 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to go right up the top to make the complaint and in writing. It has to be in writing.
Do you not have a protocol to follow at work showing how to make the complaint and to whom? Also do you belong to a union?
If you don't belong to a union then join one. If you do belong to a union then use them to help you with this complaint.
You may need to send this complaint to several managers.
2007-02-23 01:22:21 · answer #10 · answered by laplandfan 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Before you do it have another position lined up, by doing what you are thinking you may harm yourself more. Be careful with this it may backfire.
Be patient, even befriend her. I learned a quote a while back, "Keep your friends close but your enemies closer." That I have found out does work.
2007-02-23 01:18:46 · answer #11 · answered by Carlene W 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋