How to deal with a bossy coworker?

Question

I work at a newly opened vet clinic,we just finished our second week. We have a vet tech and the vet who can have appointments scheduled for them. The rest of us girls are part timers who assist the vet in the room by holding the animals during vaccinations and such,whoever isnt assisting runs the front desk. Laura and I had an agreement to take turns with every other patient. She works more hours than me,but is still part time. I am the youngest of the bunch. Recently I was working the front desk,laura was in the back filing papers. A new client came in to check prices,as I was telling her the prices,Laura came up next to me and started talking to the client,and got her a new client booklet and went over it with her. She completely took over,and I had it under control.If I didnt,I would have asked. She made me look like an idiot infront of the client,like I dont know what Im doing.I like her a lot other than her bossy-ness.Do I confront her? I dont want to have hard feelings.

Answer 1

Never confront coworkers. You will complicate things, start arguments. You don't want to look worse that she is already making you.

What you do is tell the Dr. or the person who is really in charge that Laura is telling you how to do everything, and she wants to be in control over you, and that is not her job. Her job is not to train employees. You have to speak up, not to her but to the person responsible for all of you. If Laura is somewhat in charge, then I would listen to her, and if you think she is wrong, you need to check with the Dr. and let him or her now what Laura is making you do before doing it.

Answer 2

i would

Answer 3

Confront her.  She is showing superiority and supervisory over you.  Is this part of her job ?  I doubt it.  Talk to your vet... and her together at the same time.. in the same room.  That will stop this holier than thou approach.

Answer 4

Let it go this time, but if it happens again do confront her.

Don't carry hard feelings towards her. I am sure she didn't

intent to make you look foolish.

Answer 5

u shuold definitely confront her! if u dont then she will continue doing it. just tell her how shes making u feel

Answer 6

Find a time when it's not too busy at work.  Pull Laura aside and tell her you don't appreciate her actions.  Just because she's older doesn't give her the right to make the work environment uncomfortable.  I've had this happen at work and had to speak with my boss.  That was the only way it was solved. But if Laura wasn't making a big loud scene, then you might not have to speak with your boss! Good luck!

Answer 7

Just say, firmly, "Laura thanks for all of the extra help you have been giving me but I really have the hang of things here and do not need assistance with customers.  I'll let you know if I need a hand with anything."