Speaking up and out

Speaking up and out

I was hired over a couple of months ago as a recruiter with a behavioral health firm.

The HR Specialist and I work hand in hand and both report to the CEO though she trained me and is my go to person on many things.

Recently, she has become too big for her britches and has become a bit combative with me. For example, when I ask a question she gets combative and says no a lot and is obviously frustrated for some reason. I believe she is acting out because the other hr specialist left with no notice or communication. She is overwhelmed and is taking it out on me.

I had reached my limit during our meeting with marketing when she started to again shut down my suggestions and input. I said that I was going to research what I was suggesting and get back to the team. I basically shut her down and moved onto the next topic. I did not enjoy doing that but felt that it had to be done to stop the negativity from her and the raising of her voice. Unfortunately, she has revealed to me that she has MS and other health problems, but that doesn’t give her the right to be dismissive toward me. I believe she is somewhat threatened by me.

Her performance is declining somewhat and the ceo is noticing. The CEO even said in one of our meetings that I may have to send the candidates the offer letter instead of the specialist to free up some of her time. I do the recruiting through the verbal acceptance and the hr specialist does the offer letter and onboarding. It makes sense for me to also include sending out the offer letter, but deep down I think the hr specialist would view it as me taking away some of her responsibilities.

Any insights or feedback would be appreciated.