Strong cologne impacts a co-worker
Q: I was just hired by a very cool company. I am thrilled to be working here. There is one problem. The man who sits close to my cube seems to use a heavy dose of irritating cologne every morning. … Continued
When to send a thank-you note
Q: When do you send a thank-you note and how (email, text, a real note through the mail)? After I meet with someone on an informational basis only? After the first interview? After the second interview? When I receive a … Continued
Bare feet in the office – acceptable or not?
Q: I never thought I would be writing a letter to ask about bare feet in the office. I am a forty something manager of a young team of three inside sales professionals. Yes, we work in technology. Yes, we … Continued
A law firm partner who lingers
Q: I work for a mid-sized law firm and I am enjoying the work. One of the partners is a problem. After I started in my role, he started hanging out near my office and it became excessive. I learned … Continued
How to approach a surly colleague
Q: I work in a great company. Most of my co-workers are smart, approachable and just really good people. We have one long-term employee though who I think is a problem. I don’t want to be a complainer but honestly … Continued
How to address inappropriate workplace conduct
Q: I might have to leave a job I love. I love my job, my colleagues and my work. I even love my boss. However, there is a manager, in another department, who is targeting me. He has made my … Continued
Career transfer to accounting and finance
Q: I just have a few questions about career transfer that I hoped that you may be able to answer for me. I have worked for the past 9 years in the biotech industry with 5 of those years in … Continued
Who is impacted by new minimum wage law?
Q: I work in a bookstore and enjoy my work. I work about 20 hours per week. My hours fluctuate based on the owner’s needs. I have been reading about the new minimum wage in Massachusetts. Is this only for … Continued
Keeping salaries confidential
Q: My employer has an employee handbook that says I can’t discuss my wages and benefits with my co-workers or outside the company. Is this legal? A: No, this request is unlawful. There is a federal law called the National … Continued
How to handle reference calls
Q: I received a telephone call from a local company. They are asking for a reference on one of my former co-workers. I sat a few desks away from this person but I don’t know anything about their performance. I … Continued