You are a new recruit and notice that a group of veteran firefighters often eats together and talks about 'the old days,' making you feel excluded. What should you do?

Question: You are a new recruit and notice that a group of veteran firefighters often eats together and talks about 'the old days,' making you feel excluded. What should you do?

Answer options:

• Wait for them to eventually notice you and invite you in.
• Complain to the Union representative about a hostile work environment. ✅ Join the group, introduce yourself, and try to participate in the conversation.
• Tell the Captain that the other firefighters are being mean to you.

Correct answer: Join the group, introduce yourself, and try to participate in the conversation.

Explanation: Direct, respectful communication is the first step in addressing workplace exclusions. It allows the other person to correct their behavior without involving management unnecessarily.