December 2024

update: I’m in charge of our disgusting office kitchen

It’s “where are you now?” month at Ask a Manager, and all December I’m running updates from people who had their letters here answered in the past. There will be more posts than usual this week, so keep checking back throughout the day. Remember the letter-writer who was in charge of a disgusting office kitchen? […]

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my favorite posts of 2024

Here are my favorite posts of 2024, in no particular order: 1. how much can I pet my cat on video calls? Because this is asking the important question. 2. I spent a ton of time helping 2 employees who hate each other … now they’re dating Because people are so weird. 3. I think […]

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what’s your company doing for the holidays this year?

What’s your company doing for the holidays this year?  Party on a boat that you can’t escape from and which will produce a confrontational email the following Monday? Potluck with questionable contributions? Swanky hotel party complete with lines of coke? Please share in the comment section!

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update: my boss is resentful when I do well

It’s “where are you now?” month at Ask a Manager, and all December I’m running updates from people who had their letters here answered in the past. There will be more posts than usual this week, so keep checking back throughout the day. Remember the letter-writer whose boss was resentful when she did well? Here’s […]

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should I demote an employee who can’t do her job?

A reader writes: I have a staff member who was promoted beyond her capability. I have tried coaching her, and she simply does not have the skill or aptitude required for the job. I do think she could work in her original role — but to have the budget to replace her, she would need […]

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