Context: My workplace has been going through a lot of restructuring this past year and our newest colleague constantly complains about the same things (call them person A). They have no awareness of who is appropriate to complain to and ignore advice about how to better approach situations. Theyve already tarnished their reputation because of the way they approached issues with internal and external stakeholders and will likely not be considered for promotion until leadership changes. It‘s unfortunate because they’re good at their job but they have rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. It‘s at a point where the complaints are now exhausting and I think they should either accept that things will be challenging for some time while restructuring is finalized or look for new job.
Situation: I overheard person A complaining to a peer (person B) (through my closed door and noise cancellation machine) and A stated that they were leaving the company. I messaged my go to person at work (person C) to see if they heard that update. My intention was not to start a rumor, it was just a question. Person C then called person B to ask them directly. Person B approached me about it and we talked through it and clarified what I heard - it was apparently a “what if situation”.
Issue: Now here is my dilemma - I think I should approach person A, tell them what I overheard and that I asked person C about it. I should apologize for sharing that information and that moving forward I will approach them directly if I have a question about something that I hear them say.
Ill ask that they close their door for private conversations and advise that they be careful about making statements about leaving the company before officially resigning because it’s just not a good look - a past coworker told everyone they were leaving before our boss and that did not go over well. Partly, that’s the situation I was trying to avoid here.
I also want to tell them to be more discreet when making negative comments about leadership because they often stop by our work area. I think it’s important to point out areas for improvement, but again, it’s about approach and setting.
I hate drama and I’m upset that person C asked person B without any warning. Im worried that person B will perceive me as a gossiper and I want person A to hear it from me. Person C was the only person that I could trust to share frustrations with. Moving forward, I’ll be minding my own business. Maybe the instability is getting to me too…. That’s a topic for my therapist.
Any guidance or advice is appreciated! Not looking for any hate, just advice from more experienced professionals on how to approach uncomfortable conversations where you need to admit your mistake. Thank you!