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I m a
manager of 12 employees (I am female, age 39). Recently, another manager was reproached by
our Vice President. This manager (male, age 35) blamed me so he told MY staff that he was
going to "get the fat cow fired" (referring to me). He makes derogatory remarks
about others, but this is the first time he has done so to those that are supervised. I
feel that this is a hostile work environment and want my boss to correct this (transfer or
fire him). Am I correct? If not, what recourse do I have?
Hello
Object of Verbal Abuse!
The co-worker who reportedly told your subordinates he was "going to get the 'fat cow' fired" most certainly is guilty of verbal aggression. If your reports will stand by what they said he said, you have a case for requesting disciplining of this man. Especially you have a case if you did nothing to contribute to his reproachment and if you have evidence of verbally abusive remarks he made to others. The best evidence you have is corroboration in writing. Sometimes this is difficult to get.
Have you talked with this man about his remarks? Perhaps a meeting with him might lead to a private and, more appropriately, a public apology. I think you have a case to speak with your superior and can make the case that he must be disciplined because he is contributing to a hostile work enviornment. The courts and EEOC have make it clear that such abuse is not to be tolerated.
We encourage constructive vigorous exchange, and argument about workplace isses, but remarks which are verbally aggressive discount the worth of others and need not be tolerated. Let me learn what course of action you take.
WEGO Encourages Free Speech But Not Verbal Abuse!
Sincerely,
Bill Gorden