Workplace Woes: Pilates, Harassment, and the Office Printer
In a recent advice column, Dr. Kirstin Ferguson tackles three distinct workplace dilemmas, offering a balanced perspective on modern office culture.
Pilates, Nail Appointments, and School Events
A Gen X employee complains about young female colleagues taking time off during work hours for personal activities, including Pilates, nail appointments, and children's school events, claiming it results in an unfair workload.
Dr. Ferguson responds that the question itself may be unfair, noting a key difference between personal appointments and school events.
"Dr. Ferguson suggests the employee reframe their perspective on flexible work arrangements and discuss workload concerns with management if warranted."
She advises the employee to consider whether the real issue is workload distribution, not the specific activities of colleagues.
Alleged Sexual Harassment by Supervisor
A female employee alleges she was sexually harassed by her male supervisor. The organization's handling of the matter was reportedly poor, and the employee resigned for safety and mental health reasons. The alleged perpetrator remains in a senior HR role.
Dr. Ferguson’s advice is firm and action-oriented.
"Dr. Ferguson advises the affected employee to contact the Australian Human Rights Commission, consult a workplace lawyer, and possibly raise concerns with the organization's board or regulator about potential risks to current staff."
She emphasizes that the safety of current employees is a serious concern that may need escalation beyond the immediate workplace.
Misuse of Office Printer
An employee notices a coworker using office equipment to print up to 200 color pages for a school committee after hours, contrary to management's cost-cutting directives.
Dr. Ferguson recommends a direct but non-confrontational first step.
"Dr. Ferguson suggests first speaking directly to the coworker about whether the printing has been approved, and if it continues without approval, to escalate the issue to someone else."
The advice prioritizes communication before formal escalation, maintaining a professional tone throughout.