help! my repetitive job is now invading my sleep! by Alison Green on June 22, 2011 A reader writes: I realize you’re not a therapist or a psychologist, but I have an unusual problem that I wonder if you have ever come across before. It’s driving me crazy! I work in a call center doing technical telephone support. The company I work for has the contract for a major and very […] Read the full article →
what your boss thinks when you ask for a raise, rich interns, Gen Y, and more by Alison Green on June 22, 2011 When I find interesting links, I usually post them on Twitter, but I’ve come across more than usual this week, so here’s a round-up: 1. I’m a huge believer that you’ll get a much better understanding of workplace dynamics by reading things that are geared toward the other side — i.e., read advice to managers […] Read the full article →
terse answer Tuesday: 7 terse answers to 7 short questions by Alison Green on June 21, 2011 Welcome to terse answer Tuesday, where we have seven interesting questions and seven terse answers. Is it fair to apply for a job I’m unqualified for? I really would like the opportunity to work in Human Resources but I have no experience working in that arena, but I do possess the skills, knowledge and character […] Read the full article →
what does a bottle of liquor in the interview room say about an employer’s culture? by Alison Green on June 21, 2011 A reader writes: I had an interview today for a temporary IT position with a product/service promotions company. When the HR person, a person from the IT dept, and I entered the interview room, I saw a half full bottle of brandy sitting on the windowsill glistening in the sun. When I pointed it out […] Read the full article →
can I apply for the job my friend asked me to connect him to? by Alison Green on June 20, 2011 A reader writes: I just got a networking call from a friend and former colleague about a job that he’s interested in. He thought I might have some insight into the company and/or know some of the people who will be involved in the hire. I didn’t have a lot of information to give him, […] Read the full article →
how to manage your boss by Alison Green on June 20, 2011 Frustrated with your boss? Or finding your boss frustrated with you? Here are 10 tips to manage your boss and hopefully end up with a far easier, pleasant, and more productive relationship. 1. Make sure you’re aligned about expectations. Talk explicitly with your manager about your goals and priorities for the year and what success would […] Read the full article →
struggling over whether to accept job offer by Alison Green on June 20, 2011 A reader writes: I’m in a tricky situation. I’ve been working in marketing for the last 4 years – a mix of strategy, analytics, and creative. I love what I do, and I love my boss and team. However, there is nowhere in the company to get promoted and grow. Also, due to financial hardship, […] Read the full article →
is my boss trying to get rid of me? by Alison Green on June 17, 2011 A reader writes: I work as a paralegal. My boss is the attorney whom I directly report to. My boss called me into her office last week about a research project that I had been working on. After we were done, she then proceeded to tell me that she promised she would pass the word […] Read the full article →
bad ideas from interns: using your company’s email list to promote underage drinking by Alison Green on June 16, 2011 Check out this amusing email string from a bumbling but very enthusiastic JP Morgan summer intern. The sequence of events: 1. He sends an all-staff email encouraging people to attend a happy hour that night, noting that the bar “is not strict on IDs so if you have a fake you will be fine. If […] Read the full article →
is it worth calling to find out the hiring manager’s name? by Alison Green on June 16, 2011 A reader writes: I am a new graduate looking for my first job and have spent hours on your site learning to become the best candidate. My question is, should I call a company to find out the name of the HR Manager when its not provided so I can address my cover letter to […] Read the full article →