Ask Michelle

Are you dealing with some issues that you want to resolve?  E-mail me at michelle at happygrrls.com and I will try to include it in the next installment of Ask Michelle

Dear Michelle

I know that you normally deal with relationship type questions, but I have a real problem that I don’t know how to solve on my own.

Okay, my issue is work related.  I started a new job a few months ago and I like it a lot. I love most of my co-workers and I even like my boss.  However, one of my co-workers is making my life a living hell.  She teases me about everything—my clothes, what I eat for lunch and the way I apply my makeup!  The girl is a major biatch.  I’m not sure what to do.  I’ve taken it for the past 3 months (my probation period), but I can’t take it anymore.  Please help!  : (

Signed, 

No more bullying

Dear No More Bullying

I am so sorry to hear that you’re treated like that at work.  It’s sad to see that bullying doesn’t necessarily stop at school—sometimes it shows up in the workplace.

I am not an expert in the field (you may need to consult the website - Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety) but what I would suggest is that you speak to your co-worker to let her know that you don’t like the way she treats you.  It’s demeaning, degrading and creating a stressful situation.   It is possible that she may not know that what she is saying to you is upsetting you.  If she persists, take the issue to your manager or Human Resources Department. It is best that your manager is aware of the issue so that it can be addressed and resolved.

Good luck.  Please let me know how it works out.

Michelle