Just discovered my colleague is a fantasist

[BerylStreep]

I couldn't decide whether to post this in employment issues or here.

Due to restructuring at work, I have recently got a new team member, who is my deputy. Although she has only recently joined the team, she started working in our area last year, and I have always found her to be quite pleasant, although she never stops talking. She will use a thousand words when 10 would do. (Actually, probably more)

Over recent weeks, I have become more and more aware that she never actually does any work, despite creating the impression that she is inundated - everything always seems to be a drama.

I was approached today by a trusted colleague, who said he felt he needed to make me aware of certain issues about my new team member. Apparently she has a history of inventing stories about non-existent boyfriends, going into minute detail about their dates, what he was wearing, what colour of tie etc. She apparently was also demoted and moved from a previous post as a result of theft, and has previously made allegations against (some married) male colleagues that they fancy her and have initiated affairs.

There was a lot of other detail about work related issues, where lies have been told about tasks and subordinates.

I absolutely trust the colleague who told me this, although I am completely shocked.

Whilst I have come across tricky colleagues before, I have no experience of this. Does this sort behaviour sound like some sort of personality disorder? Any tips on dealing with it?

[madmouse]

I would really start by questioning how this colleague knows all that to be honest and not jump to conclusions about personality disorders

[llareggub]

I would concentrate on the things you can do something about. If she never does any work, then as her manager you need to address this. Take steps to talk to her about this informally and take formal action if nothing improves.

If you do find evidence of her lying about tasks and other members of the team, then you can deal with this as and when it occurs. But personally, I'd steer clear of rushing to form a judgement, unless of course you are qualified to make a diagnosis about her mental health?