Ask Timpo: My marketing director drinks too much
Q: She's reliable, full of wonderful ideas and has been with the company for years. Only problem is: she drinks too much at events and behaves inappropriately. What to do?
"My marketing director drinks too much!"
It's time for a serious chat, says John Timpson
A: She might be a great marketing director, but her social behaviour is in danger of damaging your reputation and her excessive drinking is probably harming her health.
It’s time for a serious chat. Be blunt. Make sure she understands that people notice her eccentricity and, far from being the life and soul of every party, she is a liability. At the same time, praise her contribution; explain you value her expertise but worry that her behaviour could prevent her from doing a proper job.
She may need professional help, but if it’s simply a case of too much social champagne, she could help herself by sticking to sparkling water.
If your intervention fails to make any difference, force the issue – suggest she consults a doctor, making it clear that further embarrassing episodes may cost her the job.
This is not just lighthearted misbehaviour. It could affect your future prosperity. You must act before it’s too late.
Picture: source