Should You Tell on Your Boss?

Nobody wants to be a tattletale. Telling on someone you work with can make you uncomfortable, and the thought of telling on your boss can be especially scary. So should you ever do it?

That really depends on the situation. In general, it’s usually a good idea to mind your own business and worry about your own actions at work. But there are times when the actions of a boss or co-worker can have negative ramifications for you and the whole office, and in that case you may need to weigh what to do.

This article addresses a situation in which an employee is asked about her boss by his supervisors. This is a tricky (and unenviable) position to be in, because the employee will feel uncomfortable revealing information, but will also feel guilty if she doesn’t speak up with what she knows.

In a case like this, it’s probably best to be honest and frank, since the higher-ups already have at least an inkling of what’s happening, and most likely there were will be consequences for the boss no matter what. But if the employee refuses to talk, that may make her look guilty, as well, which could harm her own career.

Of course, you should also that your comments be kept confidential—but be aware there’s no guarantee that will be honored, so it could possibly lead to some awkward feelings with your boss, should they discover you’ve been talking about them.

Have you ever told on a boss? Share your story in the comments.  

Image courtesy of crossley