Snooping Coworker
Dear Sue:
I work with this lady who constantly goes through my desk and the stuff on it. I do not have anything to hide or be ashamed of, but it is very irritating to know that she is so disrespectful of her co-workers. I have seen her go through other people's desk as they have seen her go through mine. She usually does this before people get to work as she gets here about 30-60 minutes before everyone else gets to work or while they are at lunch. Any thoughts on what I should do?
- Invaded
Sue Says:
I am having trouble understanding why you (or your coworkers) have permitted this to go on and haven’t approached this lady about her snooping. This person has the nerve to peruse through other people’s desks, and you don’t know what to do about it? The answer is quite simple: you need to inform her that you know what she is doing, and let her know it is totally unacceptable and inappropriate. Tell her that each person should be entitled to privacy in their own work area and that if she needs something, all she has to do is ask someone for help. Keep in mind that this lady is the one who is doing something inappropriate and that she is the one who should be uncomfortable, not you. You need to be firm and direct with her, and let her know that if she continues this practice that you will be forced to report her.
-- Sue Morem is a professional speaker, best-selling author and syndicated columnist. Her books include How to Gain the Professional Edge, 101 Tips for Graduates, and the just released How to Get a Job and Keep It, Second Edition. You can send questions to her by email at asksue@suemorem.com or visit her web site at http://www.suemorem.com.
Read more of Sue’s articles by clicking here: Ask Sue
Leave a comment