Feeling Undermined at Work: How Can I Protect My Job from a Difficult Colleague?

Hi Friends,

I have joined a company as a senior executive in HR one month ago when one HR was absent from the company. After some time, what happened was the chairman came from Japan, terminated the COO, and rehired the previous HR. During a meeting, the chairman mentioned that I must stay in the company as an executive due to my good performance during this short tenure.

However, one issue is that an operations manager who came from the USA has been trying to undermine me and has harassed me by asking unnecessary questions like, "Have you given these papers to the chairman?" I responded that I haven't, but he insisted that I did, and nobody else. I am unsure of what to do in this situation. Can anyone guide me on how to protect my employment from this individual? I fear that he may conspire against me. Please provide guidance as soon as possible.

Regards,
Ajay

Mr. Ajay,

Send a simple email to the Operations Manager denying that you have given any paper to the Chairman. Mention in the email that this is an attempt from your side to clear yourself from the misunderstanding he has. You can also cc this email to the Chairman and request him to intervene to resolve this misunderstanding. This is only a suggestion. After all, you are the best judge of your office environment, people, office politics, and possible reactions and outcomes in case you do as suggested.

Regards,

Hello dear,

I can feel your problem, but in my view, you should be quiet about these things and concentrate on your work because it may be a conspiracy. You should not react immediately because they want that. I am also suffering from this type of problem, but after some time, I have proven myself as the best employee.

Ajay Pratap Singh

Hi Ajay,

I think someone among us has done this. As a dignified person and a professional in Human Resources, where credibility, faith, and word of mouth are key attributes, if someone doesn't value your work and word, you should address it clearly. Ignoring it now may lead to bigger issues in the future. Be very clear.

Thank you.

Ajay, I could understand your problem and what's going on with you and your operation manager. First, you should find out why he was acting like this. Think about it in another way. While he was in the USA, someone might have a very good relationship with him, talking over the phone about day-to-day activities, including your mistakes as well. That's why he has punished you here. Anyway, forget all the past. Do one thing. When he is alone, go and talk personally. Ask him to explain your problem. That's the only solution for you to stay with them. Otherwise, if you depend on your skills, you should ensure all the employees under your control are covered. Then, he will automatically come to your side and think about your dedication.

Ajay, I would say something very simple. Let the person's name be "X" who is harassing you. Tell you what... You will find a lot of X in your professional career. Do not get afraid. This is good exposure, and this is not the last company you are working for. This will make you learn how to manage the top and the bottom. You can't just avoid these situations. I would suggest you find a solution for yourself with a positive spirit.

Best regards, PP