Deciding whether to squeal on a colleague is not something to take lightly.

In the best situation, it could protect you, others, or the company from an employees wrong-doing.

You could come out looking like a hero if the circumstances are right.

This is because addressing problems directly is best.

Maybe there is context or information you dont have or maybe it was a mistake.

Everyone deserves a shot to explain or correct their behavior.

Her coworker noticed where she parked and reported her.

It eventually got back to my friend that her colleague did this and it compromised their relationship.

This is what others in the office did.

But instead, this coworker assumed my friend was doing something wrong.

Give people the benefit of the doubt and have a direct conversation before snitching.

This doesnt negate you reporting the issue, but it does make your actions transparent.

After all, thats what youre advocating for by exposing someone elses behavior.

Understand policy violations

There are plenty of behaviors displayed at work that are simply not worth reporting.

People can be annoying, disagreeable, sarcastic, and even rude.

The behavior may not be severe enough to warrant action.

Ultimately, it often boils down to personality conflicts versus policy violations.

The same goes for hostile work environment.

Most organizations have clear definitions.

Document your experience

However, there are indeed situations in which you might snitch.

Also, there is a clear policy violation at play.

Again, the best first step is to inform the person of your concerns.

Everyone deserves the chance to defend their actions.

But if thats not possible, document your experience.

Also note how frequently the behavior occurs or the scope of the issue.

A one-time oversight or rude reaction is different than witnessing a coworker lie repeatedly to client.

They also can protect you from making a mistake by going above them.

The majority of the time, its not worth snitching on a coworker.

Its perceived as petty and can make you look conflict-avoidant.