Not sure what to do about this woman at work..

[alittletorn]

Hello,

I am having a little bit of a problem with a particular lady at work.
I have been working here for around 5.5 months now.. and this lady started around 3 months ago in the same department as me.

I found out today through a colleague of mine, that this lady has told my manager that I am struggling with my work, stressed and contemplating 'leaving' the company!
I haven't ever said to this lady that I feel stressed or that I'm contemplating leaving. In fact, I am really happy and settled in my role, and absolutely love the company!

I am just really hurt and confused. I really liked this particular lady but I know that others in my department aren't too sure on her. She is very opinionated and regularly voices her opinions on others in the company to the office.

I am hoping to pass my work probation in the next month or so, providing all goes well. Could it be something to do with this? She's not been here as long as me (not by much, though..) I just can't think of a reason why she would do this.

I know my manager is really happy with my work and progress within the company snd tells me often, so I'm hoping I have nothing to worry about.. but am now concerned that they think i want to leave the company. If so, they could decide not to pass my probation due to the belief that I will leave soon on my own accord anyway. It's just got really out of hand and is a complete lie. I found out that my manager has been asking others in the department if they believe I am okay, managing and coping well with my workload, etc etc. It's just odd that the manager hasn't come to me directly, but I will be pulling them aside tomorrow to assure that I am happy and have absolutely no plans on leaving.

I suppose what im asking, is would it be unreasonable to say to my manager that I believe 'xxxxx' colleague has told her incorrectly that I am unsettled, unhappy and looking to leave? Or do I just say something else...? I don't want to leave it unnoticed as I don't want to risk my position in the company.

Does anybody know any way I could go about this? And what I should do regarding the colleague coming the issues?!

Just email your manager that you've just found out what she's been saying, and it's absolutely untrue. You love your job and have no intention to leave!

Manager, can we have a 1-2-1 about an issue? It’s urgent but not dire and can be quickly resolved. Thanks.

Then raise two points:
First, I’m not keen on office gossip but rumours have come back to me that I’m stressed, unhappy and overwhelmed in my role. This is categorically untrue and I wanted to set the record straight.
Second, I’m uncomfortable with my personal medical issues being a subject of discussion: colleague has repeatedly raised my headaches with me, and I understand she’s discussed them in her 1-2-1s with you. I’d like this to stop.

That’s it, job done, don’t give it a second thought. Other than when this woman is talking to you, shut down anything inappropriate or gossipy or leading: “Miranda, I’m working – let me concentrate.” “Is this about the project we’re working towards?”

My first thought is she wants to unnerve you so you don't pass your probation and she thinks by doing that she'll have a better chance of being taken on.

I agree you see your manager and have a good clearing of clearing of air. I like hotmeatymilk's reply.

Meet with your manager, explain what you’ve heard is being said and set them straight. Do it without seeming to criticise her, but they need to know what the truth is and they need to hear it from you.

Meet with your manager, explain what you’ve heard is being said and set them straight. Do it without seeming to criticise her, but they need to know what the truth is and they need to hear it from you.

Definitely do this. Don't name names, but state that you feel undermined by someone on your team.

Grass that bitch up

I would speak to your manager as soon as possible.
I would be completely honest.
I would name names.
I would state clearly that you do not plan to go anywhere, and feel very settled in your position with the company.
This is a form of harrassment/ bullying.
This woman is a bitch... I am sure other colleagues have her sussed.

@Lalliella

It might be this lady who is saying these things about you. Or it might be the colleague who told you it was this last. I would tread very carefully OP. Someone at that company is a manipulative stirrer, and it might not be the obvious person.

Definitely speak to your manager tomorrow and tell them that you’ve heard these rumours going round about yourself and they’re definitely not true. Tell them how much you like the job. I’m sure you’ll be fine.

Absolutely