How to deal with a co-worker who hates her job?

Question

Help! I have a co-worker that's been complaining about how she hates her job. Whenever she's into this mode I don't talk to her at all and instead just ignore her until she cools off. She's been getting into trouble a lot with the boss because we have a new tardy and absent policy. She thinks they're out to fire her, but I don't think so. For one thing I learned that she takes advantage of peoples kindness, and even talks bad behind there back when it benefits her. She hassles people for money because she spends her pay on the stupidest stuff.

What really gets me is the fact that when she's pissed she has to let everyone at work know. She'd start using f bomb and start saying that they won't get her, yet she's acting like she is. I like my job. It may not be exciting, but it's not bad like how she acts. Am I wrong?

Now my question is...how do you deal with a co-worker like that? Am I stupid for not trying to console her because she feels hassled at work?

Answer 1

No, you are smart. Smile and nod, so she doesn't target you, and get away from her as fast as you can. Perceptions and your boss are important, you don't want to be seen as hanging out with miss negative.

Answer 2

Chances are good that she will be fired soon or quit.

Ignoring, usually works but in your case she is probably content with speaking to the wall. Everyone who suggest you tell her to find another job is a good response but it depends on the person. Do you know if she will go on a tantrum about why she cannot get another job or become defensive that you said that? On that note, I suggest you speak with her supervisor or if you do not feel comfortable speak with your supervisor to see if he/she may speak with the individual or their supervisor. Sometimes the supervisors already know and are working on handling the issue.

You are not wrong for feeling annoyed by someone venting. It is hard to console someone who is paranoid. I had a coworker that loved her job but she spent most of her time on the phone or talking to neighbors, the supervisor started dropping by more often and getting on her for not completing her work and she at first complained because she said if the boss didn't keep interrupting her she would get things done and on the contrary, the boss got her to start working and stop talking. Sometimes people are in denial because they enjoy the bad behavior.

There could be other stressor in her life that are making her situation seem worse. Irregardless of what it may be it is not conducive to you or the workplace.

Answer 3

Poop or get off the pot, is the best answer. NO ONE benefits from a disgruntled worker. She/he must either stop complaining or change jobs.
NO ONE should do what they hate.
The company suffers, the worker suffers, and the co-workers suffer.
On the other hand, once you find employment that you can invest your interest and attention in, then you truly do find happiness. It helps the employer and the employee at the same time.

Answer 4

An anonymous note on her desk stating the things you see. She may not realize how she is affecting others and needs someone elses view of her to set her straight. If it is anonymous she may be nicer to everyone! Be sure to include some of her positive attributes and let her know that it is intended to help save her job. Maybe suggest she find a new field to work in if the one you are in is so miserable for her.

Answer 5

Tell her that when a person goes to work they need to be in good mood. And ready to work. Not in a complaining mood if she keeps that up your boss may end up firing her after all. Or tell she needs to find another job maybe she is tired of the scenery.

Answer 6

u wana help her 2 love her job? ask her wat make her wanted 2 apply 2 work there in the 1st place. y wud u wana console her when all she do is take advantage of people's kindness rite? people like dat wont last long, it's either she quit or fired cuz im sure ur not d only one who is not complaining bout her attitude. ignorance is a bliss

Answer 7

She's being immature about it.. and if i were you.. if she brings up that she doesn't like working there.. and hates her job.. just ask.. 'well.. have you ever thought about quitting?' don't be rude about it.

and asking people for money.. that's just not right.. I'd start talking to your boss about it.. not the other co-workers because that's when you sink to her level.

good luck with your co-worker... hope this helps.

Answer 8

Don't console her.. if your boss is trying to get rid of her because of her negative attitude, he may associate you with her. Instead, give her a minute or so to vent, then politely say "I'm sorry, I really have to get back to what I was doing, I am very busy".

Answer 9

She doesn't like her job and shows it. I am surprized they have not let her go. Has she gone to a superior to let them know how she feels? Is she being rational when she speaks of being hassled? Just ignore her. You should not have to feel bad at work.

Answer 10

This lady does not need consoling. She needs to find another job if she's so unhappy about her present situation. Perhaps someone should suggest that to her. Do not pay attention to her complaining.

Answer 11

i think she should just quit if she really hates her job. And dont feel bad if about not consoling her its not your fault shes a wack job. Just ignore her and dont let it get to you and put your job on the line. or Simply report the incidents to your boss and let him/her deal with it.