The title basically explained everything, but here is more details, I'm so pissed these days after finding out more about what this person has been doing.
Today is the last day before a long weekend in Australia. And many shops will be closed in the following days, I went to get a few errands done using my lunch break (1hour) in the city, but due to traffic I didn't expect it to be a bit late.
Usually this boss is chill, he arrives for work late (9:17 or more), and told us he doesn't want any drama, and as long as we get the work done he doesn't really care much. Turns out that is not the case (for me).
I usually get to the office the first at 8:45 despite living the furthest. The department is really small, and currently there is only me, my boss and 1 coworker. We both joined at the same time, but I noticed that my boss start to really takes a liking on my coworker despite we do similar tasks and turn in at the same time. A lot of times he just talks to her, without including me in the conversation at all for a 3 people office.
I've ignored most of these things, and seeing those two take breaks at different time, come back late etc. I warned myself I wouldn't do the same just in case, but today it happened.
Minutes after I sat back at my desk, I received the email titled 'Reminder' from my boss, with the body text being a chatgpt coded writing about if I want or need to have longer lunch break, I need to notify him in advance so that he could plan ahead what tasks he would be assigning to us (our tasks were already assigned weeks before), and if it goes longer than expected in irregular hour I may need to apply for a personal leave for it.
My coworker has left for an appointment at 2pm (we finish at 5), he didn't say shit.
I'm so pissed.
Jobadvisor:
It's completely understandable why you're feeling so frustrated and upset by this situation. It sounds like there's a significant disconnect between your boss's general attitude and his specific reaction to your slightly late return from lunch, especially when contrasted with his behavior towards your coworker.
Here's a breakdown of the issues and some things to consider:
Why You're Right to Be Upset:
- Hypocrisy: Your boss's usual late arrivals and "no drama" stance directly contradict his formal email to you about being 15 minutes late. This inconsistency feels unfair and targeted.
- Unequal Treatment: The fact that your coworker can leave early without any apparent repercussions while you receive a formal reprimand for a minor lateness is a clear indication of unequal treatment.
- Lack of Context/Understanding: The email doesn't acknowledge potential reasons for your slight delay (traffic) and jumps straight to formal procedures.
- Feeling Excluded: The ongoing pattern of your boss favoring your coworker and excluding you from conversations in a small office is isolating and unprofessional.
- Timing: Sending this email right before a long weekend, especially when you were trying to get errands done due to upcoming closures, feels particularly insensitive.
- ChatGPT Tone: The use of a ChatGPT-generated email for a seemingly minor issue feels impersonal and adds a layer of formality that seems disproportionate to the situation.
Things to Consider and Potential Actions (though be mindful of your workplace culture and job security):
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Acknowledge the Email (Professionally): While you're upset, a professional response is generally advisable. You could reply briefly and factually:
- "Thank you for the reminder. I understand the importance of adhering to the scheduled lunch break and will ensure I manage my time effectively in the future. The slight delay today was due to unexpected traffic."
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Document Everything: Keep a record of this email, the time you received it, and any instances of your boss's inconsistent behavior or preferential treatment towards your coworker. This documentation could be useful if the situation escalates.
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Reflect on Your Actions: While the boss's reaction seems excessive, it's worth acknowledging that you were technically late. This doesn't excuse his behavior, but it can help you frame your own response and future actions.
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Consider a Private Conversation (Carefully): Depending on your comfort level and your assessment of your boss's personality, you could consider a private, calm conversation. However, approach this with caution and focus on the inconsistency of his actions, not on accusations of favoritism (though that's clearly a factor). You could say something like:
- "I wanted to briefly discuss the email I received regarding my lunch break. I understand the importance of punctuality and will strive to be on time. However, I was a little surprised by the formality of the email, especially given the general approach we have in the office. I also wanted to understand if there are specific expectations regarding lunch breaks that I may not be aware of."
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Don't Engage in Speculation (Too Much): While it's natural to feel that the email is related to the perceived favoritism, try to keep your direct communication focused on the specific issue of the late return and the inconsistency in treatment.
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Focus on Your Work: Continue to perform your duties diligently and professionally. Don't let this situation affect the quality of your work.
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Consider Your Options: If this behavior continues or escalates, you might need to consider your options within the company (HR, if applicable) or even explore other employment opportunities if the environment becomes too toxic.
Important Considerations for Your Situation in Australia (Long Weekend):
- Timing is Sensitive: Responding right before a long weekend might not be the most productive time for a detailed discussion. Your boss might be less receptive or focused.
- Avoid Emotional Responses: It's crucial to remain calm and professional in any written or verbal communication, even though you're understandably angry.
In conclusion, your feelings are valid. Your boss's behavior appears inconsistent and unfair. Focus on responding professionally to the email, documenting the situation, and considering your options for addressing this in the long term.
