Dump your crap elsewhere

Over the years, HR professionals have come to be seen by some as therapists. It’s not entirely everyone else’s fault that we live with this perception. Some of the more “old school” HR people love to listen to the gossip under the guise of being a “helpful people person.” But that’s not what I’m paid for. I’m here to develop strategy that adds bottom line value. I’m here to lead my team in serving our clients (employees) by designing and implementing programs that support productivity. Do you SEE a couch in my office? No? That’s because I’m not being paid to have you come in to my office, close the door, and DUMP your frustrations and complaints on me. This is particularly frustrating when you want it to be kept a secret and any recommendations I make for you to take proactive steps to mitigate your situation are dismissed. And if you are the CEO, you can afford a psycho-therapist. So go get one. You put me in an impossible situation when you bitch about other managers who are my peers and expect me to nod in agreement.  Go get yourself an anti-anxiety Rx and let me do what you’re paying me for.