When should a teammate go to management or HR about their partner not collaborating or contributing?

Weird question, I know, but I’ve been paired with someone who doesn’t collaborate, show initiative, communicate, know how to be a teammate, or honestly.. try at all.

We’re both new (since fall), so i had to uncomfortably call them out. I’m hoping things improve but I’m not holding my breath. I’m sure our coworkers recognize my effort, but I’m not letting this person drag me down. Please advise.

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Have you tried talking to them?

Some people are a little lost when they first start and need more guidance and direction. If you understand what needs to be done maybe delegate those tasks to your partner so they know that is an expectation of them.

Set meetings on their calendar labeled brainstorm for XYZ. Set a specific time to prep the deck. Tag them in the deck, this needs a write up. Tell them “let’s both bring 10 ideas to the brainstorm.” Set expectations.

Don’t leave any room for guessing. This is not your job but sometimes you will be the strong one on the team and sometimes the weak one. But remember you are a team and it looks good on you if you can make it work without any intervention.

Try the above for sure. But at some point I would talk to a trusted senior or CD and just say, I’m struggling with XYZ with my partner and have tried (things you tried), do you have any strategies that would help me work better with them? It’s asking for help solving the issue instead of just complaining. It’s our job to help with this kind of thing. You don’t need to deal with it all yourself but you also don’t want to straight-up throw someone under the bus. A good manager will be understanding and do what they can to help - even if that means a new partner. I have been there twice in my career and sometimes it’s just beyond what you can handle on your own.

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