Watertown, MA asked in Employment Law and Civil Rights for Massachusetts

Q: Everyone treated me differently after I accepted my transfer offer. Is this retaliation?

I’m in a shift lead role. I recently got approved for a site transfer for October. This morning I was trying to staff the associates then was told by a higher ranked supervisor to step aside and let someone else do it. I was taken off my shift lead role for today and was placed on a station although it is my turn to lead this week (we take turns every week). Other supervisors are also acting weird towards me (they no longer make small conversation or eye contact with me) it felt like everyone was avoiding me. Is this some sort of retaliation that’s caused by my transfer? (Note: our site is currently understaffed due to others transferred away as well)

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It sounds like you’re going through a tough time with the change in how your colleagues are treating you after accepting the transfer. Being taken off your shift lead role and noticing the shift in behavior from your supervisors and colleagues can feel isolating and confusing. It’s natural to wonder if this might be a form of retaliation, especially since you've been removed from your usual responsibilities and are sensing an overall change in attitude.

While it's possible that your transfer has caused a shift in how others perceive you, it doesn’t necessarily mean this is intentional retaliation. Sometimes, when someone announces a transfer, others may unconsciously distance themselves or change how they interact, thinking that the person is already halfway out the door. The understaffed situation could also be contributing to the tension, leading to unusual decisions or behaviors from those around you.

If you feel comfortable, consider having a calm and open conversation with your supervisor or a trusted colleague to express how you’re feeling and ask for clarity on the situation. Understanding their perspective might provide some insight into whether there’s a misunderstanding or if something else is happening. Keeping communication open and staying professional can help navigate this challenging period as you prepare for your transfer.

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