Re: I Can Really Pick 'Em, Can't I?

[Al Geist <al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com>]

Hi Cathy,

You've had a lot of good suggestions about how to handle your personal 
terrorist.  One suggested calling your state's AG office and discuss 
labor laws.  You can probably do this online.  I know that Alaska, 
Oregon, New Mexico and Vermont do, so I assume that most other states 
also have the laws online.

From all indications, this person has a serious problem (he curses 
everyone including his wife) that could result in potential workplace 
violence when this person snaps.  While on the surface he sounds like 
the type of manager (think Boot Camp DI) that thinks fear is a 
motivating factor, in reality he is out of control and it sounds like 
even his managers are afraid of what may happen if they confront him. 
The fact that the company is also in one of the least desirable parts of 
town makes me think that you need to get out of there as fast as you 
can, even if it means taking a job stocking shelves at the local grocery 
store.  (You said you're not doing any writing anyway.)

Finally, if your state, like so many others, is an "at will" state, you 
take the chance of getting canned the minute you stand up for your 
rights.  It sounds like this company allows employee abuse, or at least 
turns a blind eye (or is also afraid of him).  Standing up for what is 
right may put you out on the street. Any attempt to make the company 
conform to the labor laws would be futile. You are not going to change 
the corporate culture If the company has been in business since 1947. 

Remember, you don't have to love your work or your workplace, but you 
should never be afraid of going to work.

--

Al Geist, Geist Associates
Technical Writing, Online Help, Marketing Collateral, Web Design, Award 
Winning Videos, Professional Photography
Office: 802-658-3140

Cell: 505-400-4128
E-mail: al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com <mailto:al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com>
URL: www.geistassociates.com <http://www.geistassociates.com> (online 
portfolio/resume)

See also:
URL: www.geistimages.com <http://www.geistimages.com> (fine art prints 
for home or office and note cards for all occasions)

"When the situation is absolutely hopeless, you have nothing to worry 
about."
                        Compliments of The Monkey Wrench Gang


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