Annoying Coworker
Hello all, an unconventional question here because it is related to work. I just started a new job, I have very little experience working so I am still getting used to being professional and having coworkers. I am trying my best and working in a blue collar environment. I have a coworker who is also new, we were partnered together because we are in the same department. I am not the only one who dislikes him, everyone does. He is very rude and sexist, he asks overly invasive personal questions, and he never does his work when he should. He also makes fun of people for making small mistakes and laughs at them if they are clumsy. He talks constantly and every other sentence is anger inducing. I have stayed cool and polite with him but others have actively gotten angry at him. Some coworkers started talking to me about how strongly they dislike him without any prompting from me, and asked me what I thought. I agreed with them that I also do not like him but I know he doesn't intend to be annoying so I do not hate him. I just found out I am going to probably be promoted to department lead after a month and so I will be this annoying guy's boss. I am wondering how badly I may have screwed up by disclosing my personal opinion of him to my coworkers and how I may be able to salvage the situation for the sake of a peaceful work environment once I am lead (because the staff gossip). What should I do about this guy?
@Evenstar8 if you are going to become his boss, you will have the authority to keep this person or let him go. Most places of employment are "at will" which means the business can terminate someones employment without explanation. For no more reason than...it wasn't a good fit for the office culture.
before that though, once you are his boss, you will then have the authority to let this person know that his words and actions are inappropriate and give him a chance to "clean it up" meaning his professionalism.
Remain as respectful toward this person and others as you wish them to be toward you. Keep business and personal opinions separate. If the office gossip continues, gently let personnel know that focusing on work is the important agenda.
You cannot change personalities within the workplace but you can lead by example and manage your own character growth. Learning how to not let people affect your own emotions is very difficult but it can be done. Figure out what works for you if nothing else than a pair of earbuds, or letting them verbally know that you are not interested in non work conversation. Seeking employment elsewhere is also a choice you can Ultimately make. You are Never stuck.
