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HELP! My Co-Worker Complains ALL THE TIME But My Boss Won't Do Anything

HELP! My Co-Worker Complains ALL THE TIME But My Boss Won't Do Anything

In this week's edition of Well, This Happened, the series that lets you become a career coach, we tackle a daunting workplace situation from Michelle. Do you think you know how to answer this tricky situation? Let's find out.


Michelle Writes....

"WELL, THIS HAPPENED...I first want to start this off by saying I love job! I love my boss, the work environment, my co-workers, etc. There's just one thing that throws all of this off. Everyone in my department needs to work together closely in order to get projects out on time. My co-workers and I all work well together for the most part. The one downside is we have this one co-worker who's ALWAYS complaining. If it's not one thing, it's another, and he's always bringing the mood down in group conversations. Whether it's related to work or not, he never has anything nice to say. It doesn't seem to bother my boss but it's really getting on all of our nerves since we're always working closely with him. I'm nervous about speaking up. I don't want to cause tension between me and this co-worker but it's really starting to get under everyone's skin. How should I approach this situation? Thanks!"

Yikes! It can be difficult to handle that kind of negativity in the workplace all the time.

So if you were Michelle, how would you handle this situation?

A. - With your co-workers, set a private meeting with your boss and explain how this person's negativity is affecting your ability to do your work. This is something your boss should handle.

B. - File an anonymous complaint to HR about the negative behavior. That way he won't know who complained about him.

C. - Pull the co-worker aside to gently explain how his negativity at work is affecting you and your co-workers, and how it can hurt his career in the long run.

D. - Leave an anonymous note on his desk letting him know that his negativity is making him hard to work with every day.

So, what do you think is the right answer? Cast your vote and let us know.

Also, be sure to check back later this week for our follow-up video that recaps the options and reveals the correct answer.

Good luck!

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