I am a professional, focused, detail-oriented employee who is
often described as a
”
quiet person.
”
Instead of seeing my calm reserve as an asset, my colleagues
tend to criticize me for it.
Q:
I am a professional, focused, detail-oriented employee who is often described as a “quiet person.” Instead of seeing my calm reserve as an asset, my colleagues tend to criticize me for it.
One of my coworkers, who is also a good friend, is very outgoing and frequently outspoken. Management recently named her the “point person” while our boss is out on medical leave, which means she will be supervising me.
In my work, I am much more precise than she is. Also, I have worked here for 11 years, while she has been here only six. This betrayal has made me incredibly angry. I may not be as outgoing, but I am a better worker and have been here longer. What should I do about this?
A:
You haven’t been betrayed. Management simply chose someone else to fill in for your boss. And that decision should have been based on leadership ability, not seniority or work precision.
Because managing requires a specific set of skills, the best worker does not necessarily make the best manager. Or even the best temporary supervisor.
For one thing, all managers must be able to interact effectively with others. Because you communicate infrequently, the higher-ups may question your interpersonal skills. They also may not know you very well.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being quiet. As you point out, quiet people often focus on details more intently and provide a calming presence in the workplace.
But if you want to get ahead, being an office wallflower may hold you back. Because familiarity reduces risk, decision-makers tend to promote people whom they know and trust.
Instead of stewing in your resentment, take the initiative to discuss your career goals with someone in management or human resources. Preparing for the next opportunity is more important than complaining about the loss of this one.
Q:
One of my colleagues constantly monitors my comings and goings. Lately, she has started reporting my activities to our boss. Sometimes she tells him I’m gone when I’m actually here. This woman and I are both department heads who have worked here for more than eight years. The whole thing seems rather silly, but I feel a need to protect myself.
A:
If all your departures are job-related, and if your manager is pleased with your performance, then you shouldn’t be harmed by this amateur surveillance operation.
In fact, if your boss is like most managers, he may be annoyed by this woman’s trivial tattling. But if you fear that he’s taking it seriously, just ask him.
For example: “I’ve noticed that Mary seems to be keeping track of my activities. I don’t know why she’s doing this, but I’m afraid she may be giving you inaccurate information. Is this something we need to discuss?”
As long as your boss is OK, don’t worry about your nosy colleague. She obviously doesn’t have quite enough to do.
