March 2017

update: my coworker responds to everything I ask him to do with profanity and “your mom” jokes

Remember the letter from the person whose coworker responded to everything she asked him to do with profanity, name-calling, flat refusals, and and “your mom” jokes? She updated earlier here and here, and here’s the latest. Last year I wrote to you a couple times about my rude file clerk. My last update in December was so depressing! […]

Read the full article →

open thread – March 31-April 1, 2017

It’s the Friday open thread! The comment section on this post is open for discussion with other readers on anything work-related that you want to talk about. If you want an answer from me, emailing me is still your best bet*, but this is a chance to talk to other readers. * If you submitted […]

Read the full article →

I love my job, but hate the money

A reader writes: I’m very torn. I love my job — it’s what I want to do with my career, but I’m in a position with a title I’m overqualified for and don’t make enough money. While I have several years of direct experience and a master’s degree in my field, I was forced into […]

Read the full article →

4 updates from recent letter-writers

Here are four updates from people who had their letters answered here recently. 1. Coworker is using our guest office as her personal phone booth (#2 at the link) Thank you so much for taking my question, I appreciate your advice and all the input from your readers. The day of the post, I asked […]

Read the full article →

I’m spending too much money on cupcakes and snacks for my team

A reader writes: I work in a very large organization with many small teams. We are not allowed to use company money to celebrate — so not for holiday parties, weddings, babies, or birthdays. For bigger stuff, each smaller team usually everyone chips in a few bucks. For birthdays, it falls to each team’s manager. This […]

Read the full article →

what should I say if my boss asks if I’m job searching?

A reader writes: I work in a large department in a nonprofit with a fairly high turnover rate. Morale has been notably low since my supervisor was hired (her management style leaves a lot to be desired). Shortly after she was hired, one team member quit and the other gave his notice this week. This […]

Read the full article →

cheek-kissing as a greeting at work

A reader writes: I’m an IT manager for a small company. I have two direct reports, a man and a woman. I myself am a man. The three of us share an office, which is a separate room from the main operations area. Up to three to four times a week, we have other employees […]

Read the full article →