Resource Information for Classified Employees
Strictly Classified
An Informational Bulletin Published by the Personnel Commission
How Do I Approach My Boss
in Difficult Situations
From time to time, difficult situations will emerge at work. Whether you are having trouble with a coworker,
unable to complete an assignment on time, overwhelmed due to under-staffing, considering quitting or some
other stressful scenario, the situation will likely call for a conversation with your boss. Because of the sensitive nature of some of these issues, knowing what to say to your supervisor, as well as how and when to say it
is key to maintaining a positive working relationship and earning respect.
Getting Along With Others
One of the most difficult things to address with a supervisor is your relationship with or the behavior of a coworker. No one likes a tattler or a complainer. Prior to approaching your boss about a coworker, determine
whether it is appropriate for you to attempt to handle the situation independently and whether you have done
everything in your power to improve the situation. If you feel your, or someone else’s, physical safety is
threatened, immediate intervention is needed. Likewise, if you are aware of unethical or illegal behavior, it is
best to involve a supervisor. However, in most other situations it is a good idea to attempt to solve the problem independently before involving your boss.
If you are experiencing tension with a coworker or if you think that a coworker isn’t pulling his/her weight,
there are few steps you can take. First, communicate your concerns with the coworker in question. Second,
reflect on your behavior and determine if there is anything you can do to improve the situation. If you have
exhausted these options and the problem persists, involve your supervisor. Explain to your supervisor your
concerns and the steps you have taken to address the matter. Your supervisor will appreciate your efforts to
independently resolve the problem, as well as respect you for honestly bringing your concerns to him/her.
Setting My Schedule
Whether it’s a childcare issue, health related matter, or some other personal situation, occasionally events in
your private life will affect your work schedule. Talking to your boss about adjusting your working hours or
taking time off can be intimidating, especially if the office is short-staffed or it is a high-volume period, like
the start of a new semester. Nevertheless, if not addressed properly, problems in your personal life will seep
over into work and impact your performance. Rather than internalizing stress and risking your professional
MEMBERS OF THE PERSONNEL COMMISSION
James A. Srott, Chair
November 2007
David Iwata
Henry Jones
Karen Martin, Personnel Director
(213) 891-2333
reputation, talk to your supervisor. While you may not feel comfortable divulging all of the details, at least let
your supervisor know that something is going on. In most cases, your supervisor will be willing to work with
you, especially if you have a reputation for being dependable and hard working.
Uh Oh, That Didn’t Go Well
Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s how you handle those mistakes that will impact your relationship with your
coworkers and supervisors. Whether you failed to complete an assignment on time, made a factual or technical mistake with a big project, or said something inappropriate, determine what you did wrong and how it can
be repaired. Usually, the first step will be telling your supervisor. It is essential to inform your supervisor immediately if you will be unable to finish a project on time, if essential office equipment isn’t working, if you
lack the supplies or information you need to complete assigned tasks, or if you have made a mistake. The
sooner you relay the information to your boss, the easier it will be for him/her to intervene and resolve the matter. Even if the matter can’t be fixed, at least your supervisor won’t be taken off guard later on.
Parting Ways
No matter what the reason is for your departure, in order to preserve your professional reputation, it is important to leave your job on good terms. While informing your supervisor of your departure can be intimidating,
it is essential that your supervisor learns of your intention to leave directly from you. Wait until your plans are
firm before informing your supervisor or anyone else at work. Once your plans have solidified, have a one-onone conversation with your boss.
If you are planning on transferring to a different location or promoting within the District, it is a good idea to
let your supervisor know. Because promoting and retaining classified employees is important to the District,
classified employees are offered release time to interview. Additionally, news of your interview in another
department or at a different campus may travel quickly through the grapevine.
When your decision to leave your current position is finalized, there are certain steps you should take. Be sure
to tell your supervisor before you tell anyone else, give at least two weeks notice, leave your files/office in
good condition, be modest about your departure, continue working hard for the remainder of your stay, complete outstanding projects/assignments, and communicate to your supervisor anything that you are unable to
complete prior to your departure.
Addressing Further Concerns
Never lose sight of the fact that classified positions are covered by collective bargaining agreements. These
agreements address working conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your union representative.