February 2023

open thread – February 24-25, 2023

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

Read the full article →

assistant became abusive when she wasn’t invited to a meeting, my coworkers don’t check on people who are out sick, and more

It’s four answers to four questions. Here we go… 1. Our assistant turned abusive when she wasn’t invited to a meeting I work in a small office (five owners/managers, including me, and three assistants). Three of the managers are siblings, and one assistant, Kate, is the cousin of one of the managers. For years, we […]

Read the full article →

my former boss won’t leave me alone

A reader writes: I currently have a full-time job as a manager in an industry that is a very small world. I’ve worked here for three years, and I love it. My question concerns a boss I had at the previous company where I worked, Bob. He wants to stay in touch. I don’t. When […]

Read the full article →

update: how can I turn down training requests from my clients?

Remember the letter-writer who asked how to turn down training requests from clients who wanted her to basically train them in how to do her job (#4 at the link)? Here’s the update. I want to thank you for your advice. You redirected my aimless thrashing around and laser-focused me on what I needed to […]

Read the full article →

how do you handle being pregnant at work?

It’s the Thursday “ask the readers” question. A reader writes: I’m about eight weeks pregnant. My spouse and I are very excited! BUT, the realities of Growing A Human have hit me like a ton of bricks. I’m dealing with constant nausea, and really intense fatigue — as well as all the weird little things […]

Read the full article →

should I be so emotionally drained by managing?

A reader writes: I manage in a manufacturing environment, leading a team of about 40 headcount altogether. I love my job and my company, and most of the time my work feels rewarding. I work hard to be an effective coach, identify the needs of my team and help them to achieve success. Like anyone […]

Read the full article →