Quick Question

[martin1974]

I am employed by a small company, so small that I am the only employee. In the 3 years that I have worked for this employer I have been doing the work for a second one of his companies in addition to that of the one that I am contracted with.

In the last year however I have become completely disillusioned by the job and to make matters worse it is apparent that one of the people who were employed to be my assistant is quite clearly after my job, not for the responsibility, just for the money.

I have been approaching recruitment agencies to try and find new employment and was wondering whether my employer could dismiss me for this reason.

I have never had a warning, verbal or otherwise, and have no reason to make my employer dismiss me on the spot, to the point where I would openly challenge any call of gross misconduct (which is his normal get out of jail free card).

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[Scousejock]

Applying for other jobs is not a reason for you to be dismissed.

Have you considered talking to your employer about how you feel. If they dont know there is an issue they cant be blamed for not putting it right.

 

[martin1974]

Speaking to my boss is something I did months ago. Unfortunately he is one of those employers who doesn't pay any attention to issues of this nature.

As long as the work gets done he is happy and he will just close his ears to anything else.

 

[TotallySport]

he couldn't dismiss you for that alone, but he could find fault else where and possibly over time to dismiss you, but if he doesn't know he's not going to care.

 

[KateCB]

When was your last holiday? Perhaps you need at least a couple of weeks off, so that this other person can show what they are capable of?

If they ARE capable, then they are, like others, worthy of your position, though why your boss would favour them over you is not clear - if you have been doing the job without problem for 3 years, why would he want to replace you with your assistant - it sounds a little paranoid?

If they prove themselves to be incapable of doing the job, then the boss would surely notice, and understand that YOU are the best person and perhspas even look after you a little better - it sounds as though there is a personality conflict between you and your assistant? Were you not involved in their recruitment?

Every good assistant is training to take over their bosses job, its what an assistant does essentially, and those that don't make themselves as good as their boss are not worth their salt!

You can't be dismissed for job hunting - again, every employee does it, but as you have been there for 3 years and the job market is not good, it would be silly to let an ambitious assistant get under your feet and perhaps put you out of work?