How to deal with an employee that wanted your job?

[ZeroZeroSeven]

I'm expecting a job offer either later today or tomorrow.  I've had a series of interviews recently and basically they wanted me to sign the offer letter at my most recent interview, but HR stepped in because the offer letter was still in the works, needed to be signed by others in the company and all that logistical jazz.  

They were upfront about the fact that one of my (to be) direct reports felt he deserved the job, but from the head of the department's standpoint he's not qualified and he could be a point of conflict.  I was told if he gets too hard to deal with, then he would be "dealt with appropriately" (those words came straight from the head of the departments mouth).  I try to be as flexible and easy to get along with as I can and I really don't want someone to lose their job over sour grapes.  So what's the best way to deal with a potentially disgruntled employee that feels they should have your job?

[Darth Biscuit]

Do absolutely nothing aside from your job.  If the guy acts like an idiot, let the higher ups handle it.

Unless he reports directly to you then it's not your concern one way or the other.

 

If the guy has any sense he will realize that you had nothing to do with the fact that he didn't get the job.  If he doesn't have any sense, then there's nothing you can do about that either.

[Murph]

Don't walk on eggshells around him at first. Immediately extend the hand of friendship, comradery and teamwork. I wouldn't bring up the subject about the job. If, after all that, he is a long term jerk and difficult, report him.

[ZeroZeroSeven]

Do absolutely nothing aside from your job.  If the guy acts like an idiot, let the higher ups handle it.

Unless he reports directly to you then it's not your concern one way or the other.

 

If the guy has any sense he will realize that you had nothing to do with the fact that he didn't get the job.  If he doesn't have any sense, then there's nothing you can do about that either.

QFT but you know how some people are these days...they'll look for ways to hold grudges against whoever they can.

[Johnny Rockets]

Don't walk on eggshells around him at first. Immediately extend the hand of friendship, comradery and teamwork. I wouldn't bring up the subject about the job. If, after all that, he is a long term jerk and difficult, report him.

Good friend of mine at work just went through this same thing. Murph's approach is a good one. Let them know you look forward to working with them and will be leaning on them for their knowledge. Make them feel valuable. 

Doesn't mean it won't be a problem but if you do this and are sincere about it, you've done your part. Some people will look at this as a learning opportunity and strive to improve themselves, while others will sulk and be bitter about being passed up. Either way, their true colors will show no matter what you do. 

Best of luck in the new position. 

[cookinwithgas]

Buy one of those laugh boxes and push the button on it every time he walks in your office. He'll eventually stop coming to your office. Problem solved.

[Jangler]

I'm really not making lite of this, police escort

[Hawk]

hell ya...point and laugh...bang his wife if appropriate.

[cookinwithgas]

Beacuse YOU ARE A WINNAR