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Verbally attacked by employers?

Category: Law & Legal

SLCSLC


I recently had a conference call with my employer. There were a total of 3 people on the other end. The conference call was a complete surprise and I had no clue there were any issues that they had with me. I was being accused of constant negativity. All of my communication (that was asked of me and my colleagues) was in writing via email or quick text, just as was asked. Right after the issue was brought up, one person began YELLING at me, the way one's parent might yell at them when you screw something up at home, BIG TIME. I've been on my own for 4 years and have my own family, so I'm not a child. Anyway, the 3 of them had me in tears for close to an hour because I was feeling attacked and now fear for my job. The main person talking/yelling at me would not let me speak. Everything was about him. He was convinced I keep saying that he doesn't know how to do his job....though I've never EVER said that. He doesn't like my observations, opinions, or proactive decisions. He was putting words into my mouth and twisting old communications that I had previously sent to have a completely negative demeanor when they were purely concerning, if not POSITIVE/EXCITING! Another woman kept telling me I have a problem. And the other guy was insulting my intelligence. I was basically threatened that I would be fired for insubordination but when I asked if I was indeed being fired, they said no. I was however, told, "We suggest that you find another job because you're not cut out for this one." Mind you, I've been working here for 1.5 years as an assistant manager. So then, I asked, "Are you suggesting that I quit? Is that it, you're forcing me to quit?" Once again, they said no. They were insisting that I was intentionally bringing the company down and that I have problems. I don't love my job. But I don't hate my job. I work hard, usually beyond my scheduled hours. Yet I still cannot win. I'm too, "immature."

Was this kind of approach by them in any way appropriate? I was in TEARS during the last 1.5 hours of my shift and had to hide from my employees so they didn't see what I had been put through.

What do I do? I'm looking for another job, but I feel like Ive been victimized.

OverRuled23
OverRuled23

No job should reduce you to tears. Being a "boss" doesn't give him the right to belittle you.

The next time anyone-doesn't matter who-yells at you, calmly tell them: "I'm NOT here to be yelled at. This is supposed to be a workplace, NOT a schoolyard. When you figure out how to speak to me in a civil, respectful, AND professional manner, the way I'm speaking to you, THAT'S when I'll listen."

If it's during a conference call-hang up after you've said your request. You don't have to tolerate anyone yelling at you. Immediately thereafter, document. Date, full names/titles/time of conference call or meeting, agenda, what transpired, i.e. yelling, etc., the fact you hung up (if you decide to do so) and the reason, i.e. unprofessional dialog (yelling) from your employer.

Also, if there's another conference call and your employer makes statements as you've stated, don't be afraid to ask-"Will you please elaborate when you say that I said "You don't know how to do your job?" If he's vague, or refuses-document; if he explains, document. You have the right to virtually cross-examine your employer even though you may not get a straight answer.

Also, try not to cry-that's what they want. Stand firm in your demand for respect. That's what they don't want. Tough.

Threatened for insubordination? Say: "Do you have physical proof of insubordination? If so, it's a lie; if not, it's hearsay." Document.

"Intentionally bringing the company down?" Again, ask "Do you have physical proof? If so, it's a lie, if not, it's hearsay. Document.

"You have problems." Ask what kind of problems are they that you supposedly "have." Document.

He's putting words into your mouth? Ask him if he has viable proof that you made negative comments-otherwise he'll be slapped with Defamation of Character/Slander charges (if you've documented your decisions or ideas, and can actually prove his accusations are false-shame on him, because that'll prove he's lying)

Send copies of your documentation to your employer. His obnoxious behavior still continues? Keep documenting and send a copy to HR, along with a copy of your initial one to your employer.

Sounds as though your 'employer' and those three others are banding together and trying to force you out. Don't let them. They're creating a hostile environment, not you. Documentation will give you the self-confidence and "ammunition" you'll need.

If you're fired on some unfounded charge, fired because you 'dared' to speak up, or even fired for no reason at all-seek legal council with your documentations. It'll prove you worked in a hostile environment (Illegal) and with that dysfunctional putting words in your mouth, slap him with a Defamation of Character/Slander charge.

Also document what you've stated here. If you don't remember exact dates, as close as possible.

Good luck

Jonathan
Jonathan

It may have been a test don't get so upset quite yet some companies test their managers that way to see how they react in those kind of situations. just keep it cool and see what happens you may even get a raise and or promotion. If they were really upset with you they would present you with the exact problems and they would not scream at you over the phone, they would probably have a personal meeting. I'd say there is a good bet that was a managerial test so like I said keep it cool and continue to work hard and it will probably pay off.

LadyCatherine
LadyCatherine

I have had this happen on a number of times at a job I had.. that is why I don't work there any more.. I don't think you will be able to do anything about it.. find a new job..

SWEENEY
SWEENEY

Grow up and fight back

Judy
Judy

There are obviously some problems, and it sounds like your bosses think it's mainly you, whether that's the case or not.

Looking for a new job sounds like a good idea.


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