Q. Four years ago, I had an informational interview with a company in my chosen profession. I met the owner and told him this was the type of work I wanted to do. I took another job, but it’s not in my field of interest. Is it OK to contact the owner now and explain I visited there a while ago and still want to work there? I feel strange about doing this since it’s been such a long time. What do you think?
A. I think it’s more than OK to do. Having a connection that’s 4 years old still is a connection. Use it!
Q. I lost my job because the boss did not like me. I never knew what kind of mood he’d be in. Once he screamed at me in front of everyone and even accused me of lying. I really think he has a bipolar disorder. And then I was fired. I got a letter of reference but don’t know what to tell future employers about why I left.
A. The only thing you should tell a potential employer is that it was time to move on. No details. No bipolar disorders.
Q. I love my job and have been advancing rapidly. Recently, I was assigned to a major, international project. It’s a two-year assignment with great rewards involved if it works–and I know I can make it work. But I’ve just discovered I’m pregnant and am worried about how I will complete the project when I will be out for three months. Should I turn it down, tell my employers I’m pregnant, wait a few months, or say nothing?
A. Congratulations on your pregnancy and on your professionalism. Fortunately, you are protected by pregnancy anti-discrimination laws and cannot be fired or taken off an assignment because of impending maternity. So, please, do not turn down the project and do not mention you’re pregnant–yet. Do the work and when you know your plans for leaving and returning, that’s the time to tell your bosses. And also have a detailed plan for how the work should be done in your absence.
Q. My daughter is job hunting and one of the firms asked her to come back for a second interview, which turned out to be a “working” interview. She was asked just to stick around, talk to other employees, ask questions and familiarize herself with the surroundings. She stayed all day, answered a few phone calls and filed some folders. They paid her for the day and asked her back for a third interview. Is this a new trend in hiring?
A. I sure hope so–especially the part where she gets paid. That certainly is a new trend because most businesses do not pay you for the “working” day. What an opportunity for her to see what really goes on at the company and for the company to see how she fits in with its corporate culture. I would guess she used the time to her advantage because she’s been asked to come back for another interview. It sounds to me as if that’s a good place to work.
Q. I recently accepted another job opportunity but had to revoke my acceptance because my current employer made a counteroffer to keep me on board. I love my job but don’t intend to stay forever. If I continue to interview with other companies, is it appropriate to bring up the fact that I got a counteroffer?
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A. No. While it’s very flattering to be so valuable to your present employer, what sensible prospective employer would offer you a job when you might accept it and then turn it down for a higher offer? Do not bring it up. Just savor the moment.
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Carol Kleiman’s columns also appear in Monday and Thursday’s Business sections. Hear her on WBBM Newsradio 780 at 6:21 p.m. and 10:22 p.m. Mondays and at 11:20 a.m. Saturdays. Watch her “Career Coach” segments on CLTV. Send e-mail to [email protected].