I’m running out of patience when we need patience the most by Alison Green on May 20, 2020 A reader writes: I wonder if you have any ideas about dealing with minor annoyances that don’t seem so minor in the current situation. Like many people, sometimes I find myself annoyed by some of my coworkers’ habits or quirks that are otherwise fairly harmless (at least I hope it’s many people and not just […] Read the full article →
an example of starting with grace when you’re frustrated with someone by Alison Green on May 13, 2020 A reader writes: I wanted to share a recent example where in the heat of a frustrating situation I took a step back and tried (sort of…) compassion, which completely changed my understanding of the situation. I also lead a team of people on special assignment — they receive extra compensation to work for me […] Read the full article →
my boss told me to work more slowly so I don’t make my coworkers anxious by Alison Green on April 20, 2020 A reader writes: I have an unusual situation at work right now. On an ordinary week, I consistently get 25-30% more work done than the company’s goal and than my closest coworkers, and that has always been reflected on my reviews. Now, with COVID-19, we are all working from home for the first time in […] Read the full article →
I accidentally flashed my team during a video call by Alison Green on April 15, 2020 A reader writes: After a video team meeting today, I hung up the call and proceeded to get undressed for a shower. After a few seconds, when I was significantly but not completely undressed, I noticed that the app had frozen and was still open. The rest of my team had been staying on for […] Read the full article →
I’m so lonely — but how can I ask more of my coworkers right now? by Alison Green on April 14, 2020 A reader writes: I want your advice about “asking for what you need” during this time of pandemic. I’ve been at my job nearly seven months now and I love it, it’s a great step into a sector that’s hard to get into that I’ve wanted to be in for a long time. We have […] Read the full article →
when you’re a musician who needs to stay at home and neighbors don’t want you playing your instrument by Alison Green on April 13, 2020 A reader writes: I’m in a graduate program for music in New York City. Fortunately, my classmates and I have been able to work from home during this crisis. Unfortunately, this means we have to make all our music in our tiny apartments. Last week, one of my classmates got a text from her landlord […] Read the full article →
working from home is driving me nuts – can I take a break? by Alison Green on April 13, 2020 A reader writes: I’m a full-time copywriter, and I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home during these times. My company has been clear and generous with us about our work and our job security. I’ve been working from home for the past three weeks, and probably will continue to do so […] Read the full article →
I messed up at work and I’m so ashamed by Alison Green on March 4, 2020 A reader writes: I work in HR and I’m used to receiving mostly praise for my work, but today I was gently reprimanded for having been indiscreet. I immediately understood why, because I was aware that I had shared something I shouldn’t have. I was only trying to bond with someone who doesn’t seeem to […] Read the full article →
do I not respect my work commitments if I ask for a day off? by Alison Green on March 3, 2020 A reader writes: I need some gut-check advice about a situation at my unpaid internship. Am I wrong in thinking the following behavior is mean and inappropriate? At the end of my unpaid internship, I emailed my supervisor (a week in advance) to find out if it would be okay to take a day off […] Read the full article →
what’s up with people responding to emails with a phone call? by Alison Green on February 24, 2020 A reader writes: What’s the etiquette on responding to people who you have emailed and they respond with a phone call? I understand there are times when a phone call is necessary. I’ve been getting dozens of phone calls (after sending out a ton of emails on a certain work issue) and they all ask […] Read the full article →