To be annoyed work related

[Ventiicedcoffee]

I could really do with a bit of input on a work issue. I work for a small charity type organisation. Around 10 staff all part time.

I'm working on an offsite project as part of my role. There is a small amount of additional money for the project so we agreed to ask another member of staff to do a bit of work on it. We had our first meeting recently he was not very helpful and picked at a few areas of our plans, suggesting other people in the org might not be happy with them. But it was fairly low key picking at stuff not aggressive iyswim.

I've since found out from a colleague that he was moaning about the project, my choices and also seemed to suggest I wasn't capable of doing this bit of work he'd been brought in to do.

I work in this org very part time and do other work so he was brought in as my capacity is beyond full. Not that I couldn't do the bit he's doing.

There is also an history with the team he works in being all men and previously forcing a woman out because of cconstant undermining, being uncooperative and resistance to new ideas.

My instinct is is massively unprofessional to basically bitch about me to a colleague. In addition I also think he's already creating increased workload for me and isn't going to be helpful in the project.

I really feel angry that I'm getting a hint of the behaviour that forced someone else out. But I'm not sure if I should tackle it via our directors ( also our line managers) or is it best to ignore?

Also the project does involve an additional contractor. So I'm also a bit concerned that she will also have to manage his awkwardness.

Anyone?

Are you in touch with anyone on staff, with whom he will be working? His behaviour (demonstrative sighing, demanding validation) may get on their nerves, too...?

I'm in regular contact with most people working in the organisation. The colleague who told me about what he'd been saying said he was very negative and awkward to work with.

I'm also working quite closely with the contractor. But I'm reluctant to say anything about it to her, to huage her feelings on the vist. As I think it doesn't look great on the organisation.

I'd probably go to him (in writing) and say "I understand you have some additional concerns." And see what he says.

If he comes back without any issues, you've covered your back for later if he gets difficult. If he comes back with issues, you can tackle them.

That way you've remained professional and you've got proof of his thoughts for the future. If he then gets difficult with you or the contractor, you can genuinely ask what the problem is as he previously said "blah blah blah".

Basically, I'd keep it so professional and on email so he has no comeback to undermine you later.