Entry #105
REJECTION DIARY:
Stupid Workplace Rejection
Dear Harlan,
I am 17 years old, and I have just recently started a new full-time
job. One of my colleagues is making me feel stupid by embarrassing
me in front of my other colleagues, and I don't know what to do.
Also, she has a habit of turning everything I say into a nasty
remark, and this makes me really upset, as I get into trouble
for no apparent reason. What should I do?
New
and Stupid
Dear
New and Stupid,
Feeling stupid when you're not stupid isn't a sign of stupidity
- just a sign of being in an unfamiliar place with an insecure
co-worker who gets pleasure out of making the new person feel
dumb. Whether she's naturally rude and offensive (some people
have a gift for it) or doing this on purpose is the question.
Next time this happens, take her aside and tell her how uncomfortable
she made you feel. Gauge her response. Suggest a better way for
her to communicate with you - like not in front of everyone. If
talking to her only aggravates the situation, talk to your supervisor.
In the future, should she start with you, don't let it get to
you. Either ignore her or respond to her each time with, "Wow,
you're soooo smart." Be consistent and sarcastic. After a good
100 times, it will sink in - she's so smart she doesn't need to
make you feel stupid.
