Co-worker ... Am I Over-reacting?

Updated on July 22, 2010
L.L. asks from Irvine, CA
12 answers

Hi Moms,
I job-share with another woman. I've held the position for 5 years; she for two (we've co-shared for two). Both of us are dedicated employees and our boss has never had a problem w/ either one of us. I'm an independent person, always have been, and a person who gets the job done and in a timely manner. So does her job well, too.

However, she is constantly checking up on me when our boss assigns me -- and only me -- to do something. When our boss assigns her a task -- and only her -- I do not butt in or check up w/ her on the status, unless it is something that I should know about while she is not here. I expect the same. I've tried to tactfully respond in a manner that lets her know that I've "handled" it -- "I'll take it from here", "I'm working on this" "I've handled it" but she hasn't gotten the picture, really. She checks up on every little thing. It's annoying.

I understand she doesn't want anything to fall through the cracks and that she's trying to be on top of things, but it's starting to offend me. Do I just need to let it go? Am I being too sensitive? I don't like being micro-managed -- especially when it's not called for!

What can I do next?

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D.B.

answers from Honolulu on

You might ask, "Is there something I've done that would cause you to not trust me or my work?" Because maybe she doesn't see that micromanaging looks like/feels like a lack of trust. Good luck! db

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S.H.

answers from Honolulu on

She's probably asking because whatever you do, affects her too, since you both job share.
Unless your projects have NOTHING to do with her and your work that you share together.... ?
I would think that with job sharing... both parties have to know about whatever project is at hand... so that it is seamless and transparent and efficient etc. Unless the projects are exclusive to just you?

How about you just ask her, nicely? Ask her "Are you worried about something because you always check up on me and my work?"

Is she the same rank as you?

Sure it can be irritating... maybe she is just a worry wart... or nosy or just can't help it.
But I would ask her... because your 'hints' are not making headway with her.
Or do that same to her... tactfully.... ha, ha.

good luck,
Susan

3 moms found this helpful
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T.V.

answers from San Francisco on

If you are job sharing, I think you should each have a daily pass down of what you have been working on or assigned to do. It is not a matter of micro-managing; it is a matter of information that might be needed if one of you is sick or has an unplanned emergency. It is just a sensible practice for those who job share.

I suggest a frank conversation between the two of you. You can start the ball rolling. If your co-worker objects, then I would go to your direct supervisor, voice your concerns and ask for a three way discussion so you all have a clear understanding of a job sharing roll.

Blessings....

3 moms found this helpful
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J.C.

answers from Anchorage on

Rather than hint at her, just sit her down and tell her the truth.

2 moms found this helpful
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M.D.

answers from Los Angeles on

Knowing so many that have done this type of thing, I'm guessing she's just overly sensitive to anything slipping through the cracks that could reflect badly on her, even if it was your responsibility.
She's probably just tring to make sure there is no reason for this situation to be taken away from her.
As much as you can, I would try and let it go...better than a partner who does nothing and you have to pick up the slack for them!
-M

2 moms found this helpful
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J.F.

answers from Philadelphia on

Why not speak to her and tell her whats bugging you.

2 moms found this helpful
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E.A.

answers from Seattle on

Hinting isn't working. Time to sit down and lay it out. Be polite but clear.
Many blessings,
E.

1 mom found this helpful

T.F.

answers from Los Angeles on

That would irritate me to no end! Tell her "thank you, but you don't need to check up on me, anymore." She's trying to micromanage things.

1 mom found this helpful

M.D.

answers from Dallas on

Yes, I think you need to address the issue with her. Let her know how it does bother you. Hopefully then she'll back off. I do know some people are "control" freaks and even after talking with them, they will still continue. Hopefully she'll see that you've been doing this longer and know what you are doing.
good luck!

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S.C.

answers from Los Angeles on

just reply nonchalantly...
"yes, i've got it handled"..then say.."why? do you want me to give you some of my stuff to do too?"

I'm sure she doesn't want another thing on her plate.

1 mom found this helpful
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B.H.

answers from Detroit on

If it really bothers you then you should not let it go. If it continues it will cause lots of resentment on your part and you will have difficulty doing your job or start to dislike your job.
Sounds like this is one of those people who don't understand tactful subtle hints. I don't like confrontation and avoid it but sometimes you just got to let the person know straight out with no room for misunderstanding that she or he needs back off and you can do your job. I would not be so offended if she is just asking about the work to see where she needs to pick up with her part but if she is asking about it or talking to you like she is your boss or supervisor that's another issue.
Then you can get it out of the way and she will probably stop and you won't have to deal with it anymore. You both can continue your work and the problem will be solved.

1 mom found this helpful
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C.W.

answers from Los Angeles on

Next time she does it why don't you ask her nicely and honestly if she is worried that you can't handle the task? When she says no (which is the assumption) then tell her that saying (whatever her last comment of checking up was) implies that she is. And leave it at that. Hopefully she will get it.
If she doesn't then try to roll with it. Smile and roll your eyes and make it a joke for you. Keep a tally on how many times she checks up. It will save your sanity and your partnership.

1 mom found this helpful
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