Work Problem?

Question

A shift supervisor from my work (she's 22) called me today to ask me what I thought about an applicant. I've never had this done before but she told me to be really honest because this girl was going to be running register, interacting with customers, and that's important for the store's rating.

I told her the the girl was a little strange (she's actually really callow for being 16, she has the mentality of a 10 year old and acts like she's from Compton, i didn't say this to her). She asked me if I thought she was strange like in her style or her personality. I said it was her personality and that she was a little off and kind of odd. I told her I didn't want to negative and she said that I really needed to be 100% honest. I told her that personally, I think she's shady, but I can't really explain it so I'd interview her so you can see for yourself.

Now I feel stupid, was I wrong? I mean I know I wouldnt want a shady person interacting with customers and a drawer full of money

Answer 1

I think you done what you should have, be honest and tell them what you perceive to be going on. May save some problems later on.

Answer 2

Sometimes you get a vibe, either good or bad about someone you meet in just a few seconds of meeting.  Many times these gut reactions to the other person are right on target.  Likely your manager just wanted to confirm the vibe she was getting, probably the same vibe.  I wouldn't think twice about it.

Answer 3

Well, I don't think you should have judged a book by it's cover.  For example, labeling her as shady.  Instead, you could have taken your thoughts and relayed it differently.  For example, you could have said, "In my opinion, I don't feel that her customer facing appearance is right for this type of position.  If the company is worried about image, then I don't think this person would fit this criteria."  That's a professional business way to say, "this person sucks."

Answer 4

Your supervisor asked for your opinion and you gave it.  There is nothing wrong with that.  I wouldn't worry much about it.  

The final decision rests on your supervisor.  She might have already made her decision.  Your supervisor might be training you, without your knowledge,  to become a supervisor one day and she might be trying to figure out how good you are at judging potential employees.

Answer 5

i agree

Answer 6

When running a business you have to look at the whole picture, if this is what you are thinking what do you think the customer's will be thinking when they are coming into the business and having to deal with her?  There are plenty of times that I have stopped going to a place of business because of the person that I had to deal with.  If she is too immature to deal with the job than that is that, you shouldn't feel bad, this is business, not anyone who applies for the job should get it.

Edit:

In light of the new information she shouldn't be hired, if customer service is such a huge part of the business than only those who can cope in that kind of environment and can uphold the reputation should be hired, plain and simple.  I think your boss was feeling the same way about her and just needed someone to back up her opinion so she wasn't feeling it was just her.

Answer 7

Tough spot to be put in.  I think your supervisor probably came to you because she values your opinion (especially if you would be working with the applicant).  Gut feelings are often right on the money when it comes to summing people up, and that is what interviews are for, you are correct.  As long as it isn't a race issue or something like that and you explained that you just get an unsettled feeling I think you should be fine.  I would let your supervisor know that her inquiry made you uncomfortable.  Overall I think you handled it very well my saying you didn't want to speak negatively about someone else and also the fact that you did as your supervisor requested, you told her how you felt and suggested she interview so she could see for herself.  Good luck.

Answer 8

Your manager should do her job and not be asking your opinion unless this girl is a friend of yours and is asking for a reference from you. If that is the case then honestly is the best policy.