I am outspoken it has jeopardized previous jobs.

8 Comments

1. AnonymousDecember 2,2022 at 3:49PM UTC

   It's important to remember that how we deliver a message is equally as important (maybe more so sometimes) than the content. Make sure to use factual statements and avoid emotions/blaming. Good luck, keep being bold but refine your approach!

2. AnonymousDecember 2,2022 at 3:51PM UTC

   As a manager, I have always tried to present policies and procedures in a way that describes why they are essential to the business. If this comes up again, framing the question or complaint in terms of the specific business process involved will help the manager you are asking understand that you have the company's well-being in mind and are not just complaining. If you feel that the policy or procedure is out of line, it is always best to have an alternative to present if you don't like the answer.

3. AnonymousDecember 2,2022 at 8:00PM UTC

   I think it's about protocol and etiquette. This is not to say stay quiet or ignore your observations but there are professional ways to communicate your findings and allow those of the proper authority and responsibility address them.

   So while your aim was true, your approach and methods employed were most likely inappropriate if it jeopardized your prior positions.

4. Shelly EdwardsDecember 5,2022 at 3:22PM UTC

   I agree that it is likely more in your presentation and how you present your ideas. It also may be who you are addressing. If you are in an organization with a strong hierarchy structure and you just go direct to whomever you'd like to speak with regardless of the chain of command, that can be abrasive or viewed as inappropriate. There are also office politics that come into play. No one likes the office politics, but sometimes in order to get ahead, you have to work within them. I would suggest working on finding the balance once you figure out the structure of the new job.

5. AnonymousDecember 5,2022 at 4:17PM UTC

   Over the years I have worked on my delivery. Something that I do is present the issue and also possible solutions. Some people take news better than others so it helped me to know my people. That was until I started a new position almost 2 years ago. Sometimes the only thing that people hear is the issue and then they react emotionally without hearing the solution. I have now changed the way that I present issues, though can only change so much as a person.

6. AnonymousDecember 7,2022 at 7:50PM UTC

   I have often said to those that bring up problems, what is your solution. If you have a challenge or see an issue that you complain about, having a solution will help your case. Otherwise, it can be seen as just complaining, especially if it happens often. I love initiative and ideas, so if we can do something better I want to know. Continuous improvement is needed at any company, but how you address it like others said is very important. Also, is there a policy on who you talk to about workplace issues? If there is a very defined chain of command, then you need to respect that and go to the right person.

7. Liz MilneDecember 9,2022 at 3:46PM UTC

   yes, I second this: be a solution finder not a problem finder :)

8. Liz MilneDecember 9,2022 at 3:45PM UTC

   Perhaps it's not what you say as much as the way you say it?

   'This is wrong, you're meant to be doing x, y, z' will put people's backs up.

   'Oh? I thought the handbook said to do x,y,z ? Have I misunderstood?' will make them think you're just asking because you're not sure, or you're wondering if the policies have changed; rather than calling them out personally?

   Also calling people out in front of others is antagonistic, try speak to them privately and only escalate if they ignore you or double down on their errors.