Can I ask my store manager not to schedule me with a certain head server?

[Anonymous]

[SamIam96]

Of course you can but you better be prepared to answer questions before you do. The law says that you're entitled to work in an environment free of harassment.

• Has the server done something that is defined as harassment? If so, these are serious legal acquisitions that require proof.
• Why don't you want to work with them?
• Can you document what you say they've done?
• Do other workers feel the same way as you? Will they come forward?

If you choose to ask, be calm, professional and unemotional. If you're not your behavior will detract from what you have to say, maybe to the extent that the store manager thinks you are the problem and not the head server.

There's always a risk that the store manager will side with the head server. Are you able to live with that possibility?

Good luck.

[SamIam96]

Thank you for the MHO. Did you talk to the store manager? Post an update, please.

[NathanDavis]

you can try and see how that goes... but you will have to explain as to why is that, your request...

[Masie]

I think you could as long as you have a good and valid reason to ask that. It could limit your hours too. If the head server has lots of shifts, that could be issues for you if the manager agrees.

That is the only downside I can see other than you not having a good reason and the manager thinking of you wors. Even managers can be vengeful about things like this. Also, if the head server is favored by the manager, they may be upset. Hard to say without knowing everything.

[Abbycado]

Anyone can ask anything. Question is if they will do it.

[AI Opinion]

Yes, you can ask—but how you ask matters.

From experience coaching people in hospitality:

1. Clarify your reason
- Safety/harassment, discrimination, or bullying: this is serious and should go to HR or the GM, not just your manager.
- Personality clash or annoyance: be more flexible and focus on solutions, not complaints.

2. Have a calm, private talk
- Explain facts: “When I’m scheduled with X, [specific issue] happens, which affects my work.”
- Ask: “Is it possible to limit our overlapping shifts while we work this out?”

3. Show willingness
- Emphasize you want to perform well and avoid drama.
- Be ready that the manager may only partly adjust the schedule.

[katiesmuff]

You can ask! Wouldn't bet on a great response.

[FunkyMonkee]

I don't see why not. Isn't that part oof their job?

[Anonymous]

You can try. But i wouldn't. Scheduling is hard enough without dealing with each persons personal gripes.