Dear Littler,
I'm the CEO of a fast-growing company. A team of sales
executives reports to me and each has a large team of sales
employees that reports to them. Last week someone anonymously
emailed HR complaining about Cara, one of our sales executives. The
complaint is pretty ugly—allegations of bullying, toxic
culture, and sexual harassment. The complaint is long on
allegations, but short on specific details. Making matters worse,
to call Cara a high performer would be an understatement. Cara is
irreplaceable. She, and her team of 20, account for about 20% of
our sales. I've also known Cara for many years. She was even
at my wedding! I do not believe that she would engage in the
conduct that's been alleged. And if this complainant is so
serious, why are they anonymous? Shouldn't they have to come
forward if they want me to do something about it? Who would I even
talk to about the allegations since they are anonymous? Do we have
to investigate this complaint?
