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I had this issue before where I was absolutely roasted by a SM for something the manager asked me to do. I corrected the SM and ccd the manager on the email saying this is what I was asked to do, let’s make sure we are all aligned as to what the protocols are so we don’t make the same mistakes again. Manager didn’t like that but SM apologizes and called out the Manager
Moral failing take responsibility, if not a moral issue and misdirected by other senior person, tell this without apology.
Being a nice person really isn't great for your career or your company, because people need to be aware of disagreements within leadership, and you are considering hiding one rather than facilitating its resolution.
take no prisoners
Happened to me recently. Senior asked me to do something wrong. I called them out and copied manager. Senior did not like. Got bad feedback from senior. I escalated to partner that I’m not the under performer
I wouldn’t snitch unless it was something really bad. I would make sure that coworker knows you had their back and that you didn’t snitch though - they owe you one and will have your back next time you need someone in your circle.
Also bosses hate excuses. The best thing to do is acknowledge the mistake briefly and move on.
I don’t like to snitch but this senior repeatedly made mistakes. Everyone on this engagement ready to throw me under the bus. I have to look out for myself. The team is full of political and egotistical people.
Enthusiast
Market is too hot to take bullshit. Worst case scenario and if this continues to occur -just bounce.
Tell your manager how it happened, but do it in a gentle way without throwing someone else under the bus.
Conversation Starter
How can I avoid throwing someone under the bus and also still tell the full story?
Pro
The three of you are a team. If it’s still unresolved or needs a corrective action, ask for a quick call with the three of you to clarify roles and next steps. If it’s a minor thing that has been resolved, chalk it up to lesson learned for all 3 of you
Conversation Starter
It was a minor thing, should I still bring it up to my boss? Or just leave it be?
Rising Star
Depends on what it is, if minor and it’s finished - move on. Always trust your own judgement. Sometimes trying to shift blame looks worse than making a mistake, especially if it’s rather insignificant.
Not holding people accountable is a whinne move
Personally, as you said, you probably should have questioned it before forging ahead. You should always feel free to run something by your boss before proceeding (just not willy-nilly since they expect you to be able to do your job without running everything past them). Since that isn't what happened and you did as your co-worker asked, explain to your boss, but take responsibility for not asking them first. Bottom line: it's better to be proactive about CYA than risk being reprimanded when asked to do something you think is questionable.