Offensive expression in the internal list of the organisation I
Allan, a new employee, discovers that a regulation previously interpreted narrowly could be understood differently. He considers this important and shares his view on the organisation’s mailing list.
Kim, a long-time employee, publicly replies, claiming Allan lacks the professional background to make such a statement.
What would you do in Allan's place?
- 1. I write on the list that I think there should be a practice in the organisation that no one is attacked in person and in public.
- 2. I once more use the list and explain that my letter was meant to draw attention to the problem, I propose to arrange a special seminar to discuss this issue.
- 3. I believe that the colleagues do understand that Kim's attack was inappropriate, however I use the me-message and write: „I feel that questioning my competence was unjustified“.
- 4. I write to the list a message „It seems that I accidentally touched the issue here people have controversial opinions. I propose that it would be good if me and other have an opportunity to listen to Kim’s experience concerning the interpretation of this law“.
- 5. I understand that Kim is especially sensitive about the issue that is raised. Therefore, I shall go to Kim and ask him if he would explain his reaction.