What should I do about my 'plays favorites' boss?

I applied for some jobs within the same company and now my boss has attitude with me?

• I work for a state agency and applied for jobs within that agency (so for clarification-same company, different job). I know they call my boss before an interview, that I am sure of. My boss refuses to show me any new stuff, she gives it to the new girl, whom I have seniority over. The kicker, I have only been here for 5 months. 6 months is when probation is over. I cannot stand my boss. She is a very miserable lady who plays favorites. She also did not like the fact that I no longer get coffee from her any longer. Everyone knows she is a hard woman to work for. I want out of here but plan to be patient until May 16th (probation over/ appeals process for being let go). She also likes to corner me in the bathroom interrogating me about my job search. Can she make is so no one hires me?

• Answer:

  Supervisors like this believe in dictatorial rule. Since you've already applied for another job within the company, before your probation period is over, you can be let go without cause; she just has to say you didn't meet the standards. When I was in the Air Force I dealt with supervisors like this. What I found works is to carry a small pocket sized notebook with you. Every time she confronts you, or passes jobs to others less qualified, write it down (after she leaves) with dates and times. Start with the changes in her attitude since you applied for a different job, then list everything by date/time as they happen. Keep a list of employees that have or do witness any of this, but don't tell anyone you're keeping notes. If you're called on the carpet by the higher-ups advise them of the problems with your supervisor, an when it started. Again, don't tell ANYONE you've been keeping notes. If you're still let go take the notebook to an attorney that provides for a free first consultation, and advice him/her you've informed managment of the problem but they fired you anyway. If nothing else, you may be able to sue that supervisor for malfeasance (if it's a government office) or misconduct and/or abuse of authority (if it's a civilian office). In fact, run this suggestion by an attorney first. If there's a business college in your twon take it there ans run it by one of their "business law" professors (who are all attorneys). Steve