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Hello
I think I have a developing problem festering in my department. About 6 months ago I interviewed for similar position (at least on the organ-a-gram), sadly I didn't get it. The gent who did has is very opinionated (never wrong?!) and the tone of his emails is starting to get people backs-up, mine included. His responsibilities and mine overlap in a number of areas and I find that we are consistently 'butting' heads in emails - it almost feels like he has assumed a role that is higher up the tree and is looking to flex some muscles. So, my question: do I have a chat and explain to him how the tone of his conversations comes across (BTW I am not his boss - it's a flat structure and we both report to the same guy) or do I just roll with the punches knowing in time thing will probably calm down? Or changes will happen?
Your advice would be most welcome!
You have two options.
You have two options. First would be to roll with the punches and the second would be to provide peer feedback.
Not knowing the specifics it is hard to give advice, but it sounds like this might fall more in the first category. I would give it some time and see if things calm down. It sounds like this peer has always been outspoken and the recent new role has amplified that. I would give it time and see if things settle back down.
If you do feel it neccessary to provide feedback I would listen to the peer conflict podcast and I believe there may be a podcast on peer feedback. Becuase your roles do overlap, the need to have a conversation may be needed. I would attempt to look for mutual interests in getting things done. Always frame your discussions in how you both accomplish organizational objectives. Dont make it a turf war, even if your peer wants to.
One important note. Being that you and this peer report into the same person, you should not go to your boss on this. Your boss expects that both of you are professionals and can get things done. If your peer lacks that ability believe me, your boss knows or will know it soon enough without you having to bring it up.
Thanks, great advice. To
Thanks, great advice.
To put a bit more context around the subject we are in the process of a department reorg that nobody really seems to know what the output will be, many people obviously feel a bit nervous and there is considerable "chest puffing" going on. My plan is to stick to what I do best and try and avoid, where I can any conflict - but it's quite tough to be effective when you don't know what's around the corner and people are "jockeying" for positions. Interestingly my mid year appraisal in on Thursday - I'm sure I'll be given the opportunity to express my thoughts, but I think I'll need to be sensitive(as I always should be) to events mostly outside my control. Any advise?
Thanks again!
James, I had a similar
James, I had a similar situation where I was butting heads with a peer over email. Instead of replying to his emails I started contacting him in person or by phone. It wasn't as efficient, but it improved our working relationship to the point where we could accomplish what we needed to. Hope that helps - Sam
The plot thickens! I've
The plot thickens! I've heard through the grapevine that I may be reporting to the very person I'm having difficulties with as part of the re org. It's a long, dysfunctional story that centres around his work pattern v mine and what the Bosses boss needs to be seen to do to justify salaries etc. Life might just get a lot more complex - collectively what do you think?