can you help me with this work related problem please?

Question

i have just got myself a little part time job to help fund my studies. its an ironing and washing service place.
i began this job on the same day it was taken over by somebody new. the staff who were there with the old owner are having teething problems with the new owner. so there is lots of name calling and general displeasure going on. one of the women who works there has decided to start her own washing and ironing business. she has already started taking people's washing and ironing and is doing it in between working at the shop. she is also telling our customers that she is starting up herself and undercutting my boss. we have started to lose customers, due to ironing not being done right, items going missing, and orders not being done on time.
i am wondering if she has anything to do with this, however, i have no prove of this.
so my dilema is do i tell my boss whats going on and if so how can i tell her without any come back. i have a family and education to consider

Answer 1

It's an unethical way to conduct business - advertising on your boss's work time/premises. She shouldn't be doing it. Your boss would be very interested to know I'm sure. How do you get on with your new boss? What sort of a person is s/he? Do you trust them? Any information you pass on should be in strictest confidence. Could you mention it to the actual woman herself? Maybe casually like, 'Is that the right way to go about increasing your business?' I'm not sure, I'm not very good at these things. I do think it should be stopped though.

Answer 2

A perfect example of how the workers are their own worst enemies.

If you do decide to snitch I hope you experience more "comeback" than you can possibly handle. At the very least it would be good if those employees who survive your treachery will drag you out back for a well-deserved thumping. It'll be a good first lesson in how to choose your allegiances wisely and may even lead to the development of some semblance of loyalty to your peers - something you clearly do not possess yet given the content and context of your question.

Do your job and pick up your pay. You owe your employer absolutely nothing more than this.

Answer 3

If your job, family, and education are in jeopardy I would definitely bring it to your bosses attention. The way this lady is acting is clearing unprofessional. Let your boss know you would like to remain anonymous.

Answer 4

not really your business to say anything, you could suggest to a customer you hear this girl telling about her side business to mention it to the owner.... or mail an anonomous letter, but to put yourself out like that will only cause friction in the workplace.....