Daan (24) is uncertain. He has had a great job as an activities coordinator at a recreation park for six months. Every day feels like a party. He gets along well with his colleagues. However, it's his manager who is causing problems. And Daan doesn't know how to handle it.
"I am someone who tries to make the best of everything. Even with my manager – I'll call him Bart, but that's not his real name – I've tried to get along well from the start. I'm always friendly, honest, and open, and I try to do my job as well as possible. As far as I know, guests are always satisfied. But from the very beginning, Bart seems to have it in for me. He criticises absolutely everything I do. And my first interim evaluation was very negative, which I don't recognise at all. Now, I'm not one to complain, and I don't feel like going to the big boss to complain about Bart. Who knows, I might end up worse off. But yes, my job isn't getting any more enjoyable..."
Our advice
"What a difficult situation. First, try to resolve the issue in a personal conversation with your manager. And/or check with colleagues to see if you're the only one experiencing this problem. Together you are stronger anyway. Is there a confidant within the company? Approaching them could also be a good option.
Regarding the evaluation: you should at least respond to it and indicate how you see the situation yourself. Where possible, you can correct demonstrable inaccuracies in the report. Don't forget to request that your response be included in your file/personal dossier, alongside the evaluation.
Your story doesn't reveal what type of contract you have with your employer. If there is a probation period and/or a fixed-term contract, you must always weigh up which interests are most important and, if necessary, postpone further action/reaction until a 'safer' time.
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