A Serious Offense
Saturday, May 31st, 2008On Friday, I was notified that one of my employees was suspended for harassing another employee. I was stunned. This is serious and human resources is reviewing the case. The company has clear guidelines regarding these issues and we have all been through training. The employee made a very bad decision and now must suffer the consequences. My heart goes out to this person who clearly did not consider what the results of the actions would be. I am just sick about the embarrassment this person is experiencing and his/her fear of dismissal. This team consists of two people which also means that the other person on the team must pick up the slack.
Our actions everyday affect other people. We don’t realize it until something like this happens – and someone complains. There will be a terrible toll on the person, the team, the company and the victim. There may also be litigation down the road. As the manager, I am placed in a difficult situation…I support my employee but must also uphold the values and rules of my employer. I can only speak to inquiries about work contributions.
I have never experienced this with an employee. I just can’t believe this is happening to this person for whom I have a great deal of work-respect. A simple (but stupid) act has skyrocketed to become catastrophe.