Hi everyone!
I've just returned to full time work after having my first child! daunting as it is, its also a new job. I am excited and nervous to be here and hopeful this new position will be great for me and my new family.
The previous worker in this job had stepped in on a temporary basis (which was made very clear to her from the get-go) after a year or two in this job it was decided to be made a permanent position. it was then advertised as such...
Numerous people applied (including the previous/current worker at the time). She was unsuccessful and the job was offered to me.
I was pregnant at the time I was appointed the job (38weeks) and due to go off on maternity leave. Like I said above, I've just come back to work.
Now, I completely understand why this colleague would be very unhappy... after doing the job for a couple of years and then to be told you weren't successful would be gut wrenching! and a real kick in the teeth to the previous years of work she had done. I truly do.
Since returning to work I have attempted on many occasions to speak to/chat with this employee (she was appointed a position elsewhere in the business). But...nothing.
I once offered her a friendly introductory handshake on my first day! which she refused. I barely get a "hello", she wizzes past me if we meet in the communal kitchen, avoids eye contact and any contact with me! I know she's upset and I really don't want to get off on the wrong foot with anyone! I just want to do the job I'm employed to do, without any animosity.
Today I overheard her say to another colleague "yeah she said hello to me the other day like an excited school child and I just...*insert snub facial expression" and "haha, oh I know it's evil".... Now, we aren't at school and I don't want to sound like a wet blanket but I did feel a lump in my throat after that last bit.
I've tried to be nice, I will always say hello or good morning to anyone...and its hard adjusting to the new role of working mummy, hard to say goodbye to my little boy every morning and then met with this. She is popular and well-liked among all the staff. I'm the new start that stole her job....
I dunno, maybe today has been an emotional one for me but I genuinely don't know how to approach this situation to have a positive resolution.
Sorry for the rant....any thoughts or opinions would be appreciated. Thanks!