| Topic Name: |
Office Parties |
| Message Name: |
Yes, chip in... |
| Date Posted: |
07/08/2004 |
| In Reply To: |
I'm in a pickle here. I started with my company less than two months ago. I joined a smallish team and one co-worker in particular has been extremely unfriendly towards me. I took the initiative with this person to try to be friendly, and it was not reciprocated. Even though he appears corgial with the others on the team, I'm convinced that he has a problem with me. I've never broached the topic but suspect that he may resent the level that I was brought in at.
I decided to just forget about it, but now, I've found out this this person is leaving the company. I've been asked to contribute to buy a cake and gift for this person and honestly, do not feel that it is appropriate. We have no personal relationship whatsoever. We're not talking about big money, but don't want to take part because of the way that this person has acted towards me.
If someone asks him directly, how do I handle this without looking like I'm the unfriendly one?
I'd love to hear from people that have been in this situation.
Thanks in advance. |
| Message: |
...you'll look like you're not a "team player" if you don't chip in.
And although I can sympathize completely with your wanting to avoid this person, it's really in your best interest to take him/her aside and talk to him/her.
For example, you could say "it seems like we've gotten off on the wrong foot -- do you have some ideas aoub how we can work together more constructively?"
No, it's not fair that YOU are the one stuck doing this, but it'll make you look like a better co-worker to everyone! And appearances are sometimes more important than anything else.
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