Woman wonders how to combat social ills
Dear Amy: I recently moved across the country for a position with a new employer. I do not know anyone at work. The culture is not particularly sincere; this particular workplace is not the place to form true friendships.
That is not my issue; in my field this type of workplace culture is typical.
Despite this, I have become close friends with my assistant, who began working here at the same time I did.
Last week my assistant summoned me and closed the door. She said that I am a constant source of negative gossip among the support staff, mostly because I ask for services (such as cleaning of my office), and for appropriate equipment to do my work.
My assistant informed me not to trust or talk to anyone. She said that part of the gossip is that my assistant and I are "BFFs," so there is negativity directed toward her, as well.
My assistant is now afraid to interact with me. But she is the only person I trust to talk to at work! I understand her reticence; she is only 21 years old and does not want to lose her job or be further abused by the incompetent, gossipy support staff.
The leaders here are inept and just as bad as the support staff. If I "reported" this, it would only make things worse.
Do you have any recommendations?
-- Frustrated in a Toxic Workplace
Dear Frustrated: My first recommendation is that you basically hitch up your trousers and wade in.
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