Q. My firm holds an annual company party, a really fancy one, including lunch at a hotel and even dancing till 5 p.m. This party used to be optional but now, when the office closes at noon, we all have to go. If we don’t, we’re docked one half-day from our vacation time. This seems unfair to those who don’t want to attend. Why would management make a rule like that?
A. It does seem counterproductive to force employees to go to a company party, but obviously the occasion means a lot to management–and to their efforts to improve morale and retain quality employees. Since the party is such top priority for management, I strongly advise you to show up for it–and everyone else should, too. Be there. Have fun.
Q. A supervisor at my company (but not the one I report to) confided in me that he plans to fire one of his staff and asked me to recommend a replacement. Ever since then, when I see the employee I feel bad knowing what’s going to happen to him. Even though his boss swore me to secrecy, should I say something to warn him?
A Unfortunately, you cannot and must not say a word. You don’t know if the ax actually will fall or when–and you must not betray the confidence. It could cost you your job. The supervisor, who put you in a terrible position, is extremely unprofessional. Perhaps he can be replaced!
Q. I recently applied for a position I really wanted and for which I’m qualified. I thought the interview went well. I called several times to follow up and finally was told they decided not to select me. I called the person who interviewed me and asked for feedback about the interview, hoping to find out why I wasn’t selected. She said that my problem was that I was “overly enthusiastic” for the job. How can that be a disqualifier?
A. That is a ridiculous answer and probably not the true reason you didn’t get the job. The best thing you can do is to forget it and go on with your job search. You don’t want to be stuck in the past–and that job is past.
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Q. As an educational administrator, I’m in the position of being required to include official college transcripts with my job applications. My undergraduate transcripts list my age as well as my date of graduation. I believe that because I’m near the age when most educators retire, I have been passed over by potential employers. Any suggestions?
A White-out information on the transcript that potential employers have no legal right to know.
Q I have recently been approached by a colleague who wants to job-share–something I always hoped to do. We have complementary talents and we both work very hard. I love my present job but would love to work less in order to have more time with my family. What’s the best way to approach my boss without giving him the impression that I might be losing interest in my job or the company?
A. It’s a wonderful idea and proof that you do indeed want to continue working–and at that company. Don’t be defensive or apologetic when the two of you together present the idea to him. But make sure you and your potential job-sharer have a complete plan that covers all tasks, all responsibilities and your joint schedules before approaching your boss with your suggestion.
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Carol Kleiman’s column also appears in Sunday and Tuesday’s Business sections. Watch her Career Coach segments Sunday and Tuesday mornings on CLTV. Send e-mail to [email protected].