I just started (3 mths) as a mid-level manager. There is drama between my boss and my subordinate. I think it's a personal issue because I don't see anything bad about the subordinates work product or performance. In fact, I find him a very efficient and dedicated employee. I am witnessing my boss do things to sabotage the subordinate and I don't think its fair. Any suggestions on how I should handle this situation? Should I say something to the boss? The subordinate? If my boss is treating the subordinate like this, I can't imagine how I would be treated if I tried to stop my boss' unfairness toward the subordinate. Touchy situation here but need some advice please.
2007-09-30 12:21:14 · 7 answers · asked by HopingAllIsWell 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I would discuss this with your subordinate first to get as much information as you can and then determine whether it would be appropriate for you to take it further. As a mid-level manager, the subordinate should be bringing his or her issues to you first anyway. You may or may not be able to do anything with the boss if that person has a personality conflict with the subordinate. It is a very touchy situation but if you can be the buffer, you may be able to help. In the end though, if the boss is determined to make that person's life miserable, you could jeopardize your own position if you step in too far. Weigh everything out after you talk to your employee.
2007-09-30 12:31:36 · answer #1 · answered by dawnb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Here's a case where you have to actually be a manager. Document what is happening. Talk to your subordinate and find out if he and your boss had a history before you arrived on the scene. Then talk to your personnel manager, and see if there is some way to resolve the problem. A transfer may help, if it gets your subordinate out of your boss' line of fire.
Once you have a couple of options up your sleeve, talk to your boss and tell him that a good employee is being undermined and you don't want either the company or the employee to suffer. Ask the boss for suggestions on easing the situation or clarifying what is happening and why, then present the options you had prepared.
PS: If you are fearful of how you might be treated if you tried to correct such an unfair situation, maybe you ought to reconsider whether you want to work there at all - or if you want to spend the next twenty years walking on eggshells.
2007-09-30 12:27:34 · answer #2 · answered by old lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could get some documentation of the boss's behavior and then take it over his head. Make sure you want to be labeled as a "whistle blower" before you move on this. In other words, make sure you can handle any consequences of your actions. It might get difficult for you if you act on this.
There may be some underlying reason for this.....bad blood between the two? Who knows, maybe the co-worker slept with the bosses' wife (or daughter) or some such history? Tread carefully here.
2007-09-30 12:31:53 · answer #3 · answered by artistagent116 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Step 1. Go to Hallmark.
Step 2. Buy two "I appreciate you" cards.
Step 3. Write them both out from one to the other.
Step 4. Make sure to include apologies for acting out of conduct.
Step 5. Eliminate any traces that point to your involvement. For example you may find it necessary to wipe away prints, burn the pen, call in your credit card stolen and kill the Hallmark cashier.
Step 6. Deliver.
2007-09-30 12:33:06 · answer #4 · answered by Ben Reilly 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if your smart, it would be to your benefit to stay out of a situation that is really between them.
2007-09-30 12:29:26 · answer #5 · answered by Jan Luv 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
tell the higher ups
2007-09-30 12:28:25 · answer #6 · answered by w 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would stay out of it or tell someone higher
2007-09-30 13:19:04 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋