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Spoke up at work and concerned
I work as the EA to a Senior Exec... I recently spoke up about the way I felt I was being treated and my managers reaction was not good to say the least. I was basically told I work for them and they expect me to do whatever I'm asked. I'm concerned I'm on the chopping block and have started applying for jobs... My manager did not like that I dared to speak up, not one bit.
I'm not sure how to diffuse the situation or even if I can. I'm well liked, never had performance issues and actually get very high evaluation marks. I made HR aware of the conversation, as my manager mentioned 'now having to speak to HR' but I understand they work for the company.
Very concerned. Anyone have any suggestions out there?
Lori Schmitz
Girl Friday and much more in SFO Area
234
07/18/19 at 10:50PM UTC
Oh no! That is the worst... good for you for speaking up for yourself! Having worked for a semi-abusive boss as an EA for a number of years; it takes courage to say "that is not okay"... depending on who the person is... HR may not always be on your side (I hate to say it; but it is true).
Right now; the market is so hot... not sure where you are living but I am happy to help with resume, introductions, recruiters... there is no reason to stay in an abusive work relationship.
Just because they are your boss doesn't mean they can treat you unfairly and their lack of self awareness to take your comments at face value and maybe ask why you felt that way, etc. just speaks to the fact it's time to go...
My initial thought is find another job; even if it is a temp job and then let HR know you can't continue working in this type of environment so maybe it's time to find a amicable way to part ways... and get a little severance to help while you look for something full time vs. leaving yourself anxious about getting fired or working in this hostile environment.
PM me if I can help.
belmamccaffreyCEO / Founder of Work Bigger
30
07/17/19 at 7:06PM UTC
I'm so sorry to hear this! It sounds like you did the right thing with speaking up / sharing your feelings. And I think speaking to HR is great too. We have no control of how others will react, and I'm hearing the environment you're in isn't very safe / mature.
Maggie BBusiness and Data Analysis Consultant
983
07/17/19 at 4:27PM UTC
Gross and toxic. Message me if you need help with your resume - we gotta get you out of there.
Carrie TopolskiEmpowering women and beyond!
2.34k
07/17/19 at 1:22PM UTC
I wouldn't be concerned one bit. HR does work for the company but they have rules too. They have to protect the company which means if there is abuse going on then they have to be concerned that a employee could file a lawsuit. So it goes both ways. I personally would be looking for a new job. I would never deal with someone speaking to me like that nor would I want to work with someone who spoke to me like that.
You stood up for yourself. Don't sit down now. Continue to stand by what you felt was inappropriate even if that is leaving for another job. Wishing you the best. There is so much more out there.
Anonymous
07/12/19 at 6:50PM UTC
Oh goodness! Sounds like a toxic dynamic to me. You should be able to voice any concerns you're having over your work experience without fear of repercussion. Hopefully things get better, but I don't blame you for seeing what else is out there!
Anonymous
07/10/19 at 4:10PM UTC
Good for you for standing up for yourself!
Joann HalpernWide variety of experience in school of life!
270
07/09/19 at 12:51PM UTC
Know this: there ARE better jobs out there, and you WILL get one of them! If you don’t stand up for yourself, then who will? Life’s too short to be unhappy in an environment in which you spend most of your waking hours. Go get ‘em!!
Anonymous
07/08/19 at 4:59PM UTC
I echo what everyone else is saying. You definitely deserve better. Keep doing what you’re doing. And of course keep a running journal of things they say and do so you have it to show HR should they attempt to let you go. Gather proof of you actually doing your job so they can draw that connection of: this is only happening because you spoke up. Keep your head on and just stay focused. I also would spend some of your evenings self analyzing what you want in your next work environment, because truth be told - if you don’t spend time looking at the situation and what you want changed, there’s a possibility of you walking right back into it. Examine your must haves and so forth. You’ll be spending a chunk of your time at work, so make sure you’re getting good ROI. Best wishes!
Kim BeasleyAdministrative Professional
796
07/08/19 at 4:53PM UTC
You should stand up for yourself and don't let people treat you in an abusive or disrespectful way!! Too bad they aren't smart enough to realize what a gem you are! They don't deserve you; move on! Good luck.
Anonymous
07/08/19 at 4:33PM UTC
Exactly. Standing up for yourself is awesome. If they are going to treat you like crap then it is time to move on to the next level. Good luck and don't worry. You did the right thing! ?
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.