T.A.P. Q#369 – Do I Have to Listen to My Co-Worker?

Dear Experts,

It’s been heavily rumored one of my co-workers will be receiving a promotion soon. This promotion would make her my new boss. Unfortunately, this rumor has gone straight to that individual’s head and she has begun ordering me around.

If I had to guess, the rumor is true and she’ll get this promotion. But until then, do I have to listen to her? I’m worried if I ignore her instructions then she’ll fire me when she’s promoted. Help!

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Here is how our CAREEREALISM-Approved Experts answered this question on Twitter:

Q#369 Nicely speak 2 her & explain that you are co-workers and will take assignments from ur boss until directed otherwise. (@DebraWheatman)

Q#369 You should be the bigger person & a team player. Check w/a supervisor about your responsibilities. (@heatherhuhman)

Q#369 Remain professional. Some days, everybody lets things go to their head. It’s human nature. It’s forgivable. (@resumestrategy)

Q#369 Until she is your actual boss, defer all “orders” to your current boss. They will sort it out. (@gradversity)

Q#369 Do I have to listen to my coworker? We don’t choose our coworkers: http://vit.ly/1Qm1Gv. (@ravingredhead)

Q#369 When she gives U order, say u’ll check w/supv’r 2 make sure it’s OK ; ask; get back 2 her w/ansr asap. (@juliaerickson)

Q#369 Yes! If you don’t listen , you will be shooting yourself in the foot. Smile & do your best work. (@louise_fletcher)

Q#369 It’s in your best interest to respond professionally to this person, regardles your personal distaste for her behavior. (@DawnBugni)

Q#369 U don’t have to become her puppet, but don’t want to be roadblock either. People “boss” U around only when U let them. (@DawnBugni)

Q#369 Assuming anyone else has a brain at the company, you don’t have to take orders UNTIL she is supervisor. (@beneubanks)

Q#369 Agree w/@heatherhuhman: rise above; respectfully speak w/current boss 2 clarify protocol (i.e. no tone, no whining). (@ValueIntoWords)

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