Francesca has given explicit instructions to Elizabeth on numerous occasions, including warning her to take the toxic chemicals outside. Elizabeth claims to have 5 years of experience. This is not rocket science. The bulk her job is serving drinks, folding napkins and laundry. What’s to teach after 5 years? She needs direction and has been given plenty, but fails to follow them.
Francesca is checking the work. That’s why she’s so frustrated. If she was oblivious to the work that is not being done, including the small things, she would have nothing to complain to Elizabeth about. As an aside, I don’t know any good employees whose work needs constant checking and who would not be embarrassed to need their boss to check their work.
Elizabeth has every right to vent in private - not with a door open or on the deck where other employees, including Francesca, can hear. This is not only rude, but subjects Franscesca to public ridicule and in the real world would get you sent to HR. I once was forced to fire a good employee over a similar instance. I say forced because once it went to HR and attorneys were involved, not much I could do. The employee being talked about was claiming a hostile work environment among other things.
It seems Elizabeth is the one critical of Francesca because she does not make her feel warm and special, while Francesca is focused on the work and simply wants to work in a cordial environment with people she can trust.
I have yet to see what makes Francesca a terrible leader while Elizabeth is labeled an “okay” employee.