Get advice on how to deal with jerks at work Check out the book 'Jerks At Work' and other titles by Ken Lloyd Ph.D. Return to the JerksAtWork.com homepage Learn more about Ken Lloyd, Ph.D. Submit a question to Ken Lloyd, Ph.D.
 

You asked, Ken answers ...

This item is filed under these categories:
Working Conditions Furniture

We just hired a new person for telephone sales, and she brought in a huge number of stuffed animals and put them all over her work area. I don't like how it looks, and I am concerned that they will prevent her from finding important paperwork and files on her desk. What is the best way to get her to take some of these things home?



Since you have no evidence that her fluffy menagerie is interfering with her work or the work of others, it's probably too early to ask her to disband the flock. However, if the herd is already interfering with her orientation, getting in the way of others, or creating a safety problem, you should discuss the matter with her.

In such as case, the best step is to give her the specifics about the problems that her pack is causing. You should not insult her or her furry pals.

At the same time, you may be overreacting to her collection. If there is no true work-related problem associated with the pack, then your best step is to let some time pass and then look at her sales numbers and her ability to access needed information.

If her pets are preventing her from reaching her potential and becoming a productive member of your team, she should be advised of the specific problems. It's a good thing for employees to make their offices comfortable and homey, but not when it's too much of a good thing.




Comment on this item

Your name (optional)
If you leave this blank, we'll list you as "Website visitor"


Your comments
Please keep your comments focused on the topic. Thanks!