I don’t know wether this has happened to any of you and I sure hope that if it hasn’t it never does as it can cause not only an awkward workplace but a toxic one as well.
I’ve known this person who we will call Jim sorry to any Jim’s out there but I’ve known Jim for about 4 years and every time I’ve seen him around or in the canteen he’s been having a laugh with the colleagues including myself of course.
I considered Jim as a good friend at work always pleasant to talk to and if you had any problems you could ventilate and he’d always listen.
Recently he applied for a new role in the company which would soon make him a new trainer and of course to no ones surprise at the time he got the job! We were so happy for him and when he came into the canteen the day before he started he was chuffed to bits and so were we. Jim told us how worried he was at the interview but how happy he is now that he got the role.
Now it comes to why I’ve written this and wonder if it’s ever happened to you. About 2 weeks ago I went off with shingles and just came back to work about 2 days ago whilst during these two weeks Jim had been training the new staff. When I came back I was taking over his vehicle and was expecting a “how are you feeling” and a “welcome back” but no I didn’t. As I stepped on I saw another member of staff who’d have been off for about 2 years due to private reasons and I was having a good catch up with him. Jim came stomping down the vehicle with his trainee standing there awkwardly who might I add I haven’t even spoken to yet and In a sharp tone saying “do you want the key then, I do want to get off you know!” I was shocked but I just thought maybe he’s having a bad day so I asked other staff what’s going on and everyone said he’s stopped coming in the canteen and having a laugh, he’s sharp with everyone and even talks down to them. I’m honestly gutted that this has happened but I suppose titles change people.
Please let me know if this has happened to any of you at your workplace.