June 2020

my boss’s venting is stressing me out

A reader writes: When lockdown began, my department initiated a daily online catch-up, usually lasting about half an hour, to see how everyone’s doing and for important work updates. Originally it was a nice way to check in, and though I don’t think a daily meeting is necessary, I really appreciate the effort to keep […]

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coworker thinks she has the power to heal her own tumor

A reader writes: My dad works in a unionized position in a public care facility where he and his colleagues work directly with the residents. His workplace is straight-up toxic and delivers non-stop drama. His coworkers treat the residents terribly, they constantly bicker and bully amongst themselves, they don’t always follow health codes, and don’t […]

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my coworkers make fun of poor people

A reader writes: I’m a receptionist at a small firm, and all of my coworkers are at least 15 years my senior, often twice my age. Generally, this wouldn’t be an issue, but the topic of money casually comes up a lot at work. I’m in my early 30s with no college degree, but tons […]

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contacting friends’ kids with career help, is it weird to seem “normal” at work after a tragedy, and more

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. Contacting kids of family friends about career opportunities This morning, I got an email about a terrific and free leadership program for recent college grads hosted by a highly respected entrepreneur and author. I reached out to a longtime family friend whose son fit the […]

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weekend open thread – June 27-28, 2020

This comment section is open for any non-work-related discussion you’d like to have with other readers, by popular demand. Here are the rules for the weekend posts. Book recommendation of the week: Perfect Little World, by Kevin Wilson. An 18-year-old sleeps with her teacher, gets pregnant, and becomes part of a scientific project studying what happens when 10 […]

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it’s your Friday good news

It’s your Friday good news, with more accounts of success even in this weird time. 1. Thought I could share – I’m an avid reader and have used your advice to handle more than a few sticky situations at work. Unfortunately I found myself in a somewhat toxic workplace – everyone was underpaid, overworked and […]

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