subject: Day to Day In a Hostile Workplace [print this page] Day to Day In a Hostile Workplace Day to Day In a Hostile Workplace
There are days when you just don't want to go in to work. You just know that no matter what you do, it will simply not be good enough. If you just don't seem to be able to please your boss, no matter how hard you try, it may not be you, it may be your hostile workplace. Look around. Are your coworkers being treated the same way? Or are you the lucky one being singled out for special treatment? If this is a constant occurrence, you may be looking at harassment. You know there are laws against sexual harassment. Those cases make the news regularly but there are laws to protect you from other forms of harassment as well.
Do not despair, there are ways to change that hostile workplace and make it more endurable. Here are a few tips:
Do not let them get on a roll: If they criticize you, admit the possibility of them being right and take it in stride. Always look for ways to improve yourself no matter what is being said.
No matter the hostility, be polite and as pleasant as you can: when sharing a picture of your latest grandchild include them, ask if they have pictures.
If there is any form of abuse, make sure you are taking notes: If you are being singled out for discipline, write down what happened, the date, time and any witnesses that could collaborate your story.
Sometimes there will be bosses who will never say it to your face. It is very demoralizing to hear bad things being said about you behind your back. If that is what is turning your employment into a hostile workplace, you may have to face your boss directly. Protect your sources while you confront your boss. Just mention what you have heard. If they said it, they will know it is true. There are workplace laws giving you specific rights. Your boss should know those laws and obey them.
Another unfortunate situation that we often face in the workplace is dealing with control freaks.Take a look at yourself. Do you really need the level of supervision your boss is forcing upon you? Have you done something to indicate to the boss that you need it? Be honest. If the answer is no then the best way to prove to the boss that your way is actually better is to show increased profits from doing it your way or a lower accident occurrence. As long as your boss is a rational person, they can be convinced or your competence and your once hostile workplace will be transformed into the place you had hoped to work. After all most of us find employment at companies we want to work at the time we apply.
There are times when nothing works. You just happen to have a manager or superior who is beyond any form of compromise or understanding. It is amazing that these kind of people get the jobs that they are in, but nevertheless you have to consider getting help. There are many resources for learning your rights as an employee. You can turn your hostile workplace back into a reasonable place to further your career. If that is not possible, at least you will know your rights and how to move on.
