Ask Timpo: how do I deal with a Facebook faux pas?
Q: A senior member of the sales team called in sick the other day, claiming she’d caught a stomach bug. But her Facebook status said she was suffering from a “killer hangover”. What should I do?
I found out on Facebook that an employee lied
about being ill
A: This classic case of the stupid sickie calls for a back-to-work interview.
Make sure you see this fun-loving colleague on the day she returns to work and ask for a full explanation. There is no need to be aggressive, if she is as good as you say she is, you want to remain on good terms – but she needs to know the importance of telling the truth.
I wouldn’t criticise her for going on a bender but I would be unhappy if her incapacity meant missing an important appointment.
My biggest beef would be the lying. She shouldn’t have tried to cover up her hangover with an imaginary infection.
Say a few well-chosen words then move on, your main aim is to gain her full commitment for the future. Let’s hope this is an isolated incident.
Picture: source