Hello, this is Laura Lee Rose – author of the business and time management books TimePeace: Making peace with time – The Book of Answers: 105 Career Critical Situations – and I am a business and efficiency coach that specializes in time management, project management, and work-life balance strategies.
This question came from a business professional.
I saw my coworker jogging after they had called in sick. Should I tell my boss?
NO for several reasons.
- To get ahead, mind your own business
- Don’t assume the person is doing anything wrong.
- Nothing good will come of it
To get ahead, mind your own business
Your co-worker’s relationship with his/her boss is really none of your concern. Stay focused on your business, your job, your role, your duties. Be professional in all that you do and conduct yourself with elegance. Go above and beyond your daily goals and engage in more career oriented and professional development activities. Always do your best and don’t judge others.
Gossip and tattle-telling isn’t very professional. And you don’t want to risk a negative label or reputation. You don’t want to jeopardize your working relationship with your colleagues and business network.
Don’t assume the person is doing anything wrong.
Why assume that this person is doing something wrong. You don’t know the full story:
- They may have been working long hours for several days without compensation.
- They may be exhausted and need to take this time off to recharge.
- It may also be that the employee isn’t feeling well but it’s more mental/depression than physical. It could be that he is running to combat the depression and has a doctor’s appointment for later that morning.
Don’t judge or assume – especially if you don’t understanding the entire scenario.
Nothing good will come of it
Lastly – what is your motivation for telling your boss? Nothing good will come of it.
If you are looking to advance, do it on your own talent and strengths. Work on your relationship with your boss through your own contributions and not what others are doing or not doing.
- Always present a positive attitude and exude confidence.
- Always encourage and uplift co-workers.
- Offer assistance to your colleagues.
- Don’t gossip
- Take responsibility for your own mistakes
- Don’t air dirty laundry
- Don’t lie
- Be a true professional
If you need want to discuss in more detail, please setup a one-on-one consult session.
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