Vault.com: the most trusted name in career information

Vault Message Board: Workplace

Topic Name: Office Parties
Message Name: Re: cake for a nasty co-worker
Date Posted: 07/11/2004
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 shouldn't have to feel obligated to contribute. You can always use the fact that you have only been with the company for a couple of months and you really don't know the person.

Post a Reply to this Message  || Go to the Workplace Vault Message Board



Recommend this page to a friend