My boss’s behavior has changed dramatically over the past month. He constantly tries to start private conversations, and sometimes he repeats what I say in a suggestive manner. I’m making my boundaries clear, but it feels like he’s increasing my workload this time. It seems like we might negotiate my salary now, but this situation is really stressing me out. Do you think I should bring this to HR, or should I consider changing jobs?
6 Answers
6You said he echoes what you say in an implied way, but is this always related to you, or is it a general style? Maybe he behaves this way with others too; have you observed it before? 
To be very clear, if your workload increases despite your boundaries being clear, that is outright harassment. HR exists for these situations, so there’s no need to be afraid. But before quitting your job, make sure to document everything that is happening.
Perhaps we need to speak openly; are you defending what you’ve said too much? It’s somewhat our job to maintain a distance with everyone at work. Think about it before going to HR; could you be personalizing the issues?
If the situation involves mobbing or bad intent, it would make sense to report it to HR. However, if it seems to be a subjective issue, documenting it is also important. If possible, record these insinuating conversations and the increase in workload in writing. You can use your legal rights if necessary.
Friends, I want to share an update; the salary negotiation went exactly as I said, under terrible conditions. They really dragged the topic out with unnecessary details and made it feel like it was personal. I started keeping records, but I’m not sure if I can hold out until the end of the process.
Guys, is it really necessary to react so strongly? Maybe the guy just struggles with communication, after all it’s an employer-employee dynamic. Instead of immediately seeing it as an ‘attack on their rights’, wouldn’t it be more constructive to try having a clear conversation first? 