Just what I didn't need - More drama(long)

Manday

We are in the middle a controversial issue that will effect everyone at work. I was told by a higher up that I trust to just keep my head down and not get involved in the politicking, however, I just got an email that makes it impossible for me to stay out of it.

A few of my fellow workers have written a letter to the people responsible for the issue. It outlines how they feel about the various options that have been suggested, and unless anyone objects they are planning to sign it for the entire group (which I am part of). I do not agree with the priorities in the letter, and I do not want to be held responsible for submitting a letter at all (I dont think a letter is necessary).

However, if I object, and I am the only one to do so, then the letter will be signed with everyones name in the group except mine. I am afraid that doing this would stick out MORE than if I just let them sign it as a group, and I am afraid that doing this would alienate me from my coworkers, who are not only people I need to be able to work with and trust, but account for most of my friends.

I have no idea what to do, and they want a decision fast. I was having concentration issues as it is and I can't stop thinking about it and its interfering with me getting other very important things done.

Mrs.SabrinaM

You are right this is a sticky situation.  However I would not let them sign something that I don't agree with on my behalf.  I would simply respond to the e-mail that you do not feel they should sign it for the group and let everyone decide to sign it for him or her self. 

Don't mention if you will sign it or not in this e-mail.  If they come around and ask you to sign it simply decline, don't try to justify your decision or to explain yourself, you do not need to. If they keep pressing simply state that you are choosing to handle said issue in your own way, but thank you for the opportunity.

Good Luck!

Manday

thanks for the advice. I actually just talked to the person responsible for it (not for the letter itself, but who due to her status is responsible for representing what these other people think even if she doesnt agree), and after some discussion asked her to not sign my name, and to remove any wording that implied the letter was from the group as a whole from the letter, which she agreed to do. This way, even if the list of names is mostly from the group, the letter does not sound like its at all from the group, so there should be no link to me. Also, she said that she will not make public those who dont sign it (which apparently I am the first...)

Mrs.SabrinaM

Well that sounds like you have managed to do what you set out to then. Work drama always sucks, and sometimes is impossible to avoid completely.  I hope whatever issues are flying around your work, work out for the best and your life can get back to you doing your job.

cork2win

Good decision.  I think if a higher up tells you to basically keep your nose to the grindstone and don't make trouble, you should listen.  Employers hate that kind of crap.  I think it was wise of you to stay out of it.

I hope no one harbors any ill feelings toward you over it.  If something comes up, I guess I'd just reiterate "I don't want to be involved".

jannypie

im glad she agreed and i totally agree with julies first post. you never know, there may be others in the group who feel as you do but feel they have to go along with it too.