Question: “We have an individual who whistles almost nonstop at an ear piercing level. I have asked him politely not to whistle so loud. He refuses saying he has a right. I finally asked management to do something but they refuse. Now when he wants to get under my skin he will start whistling loudly. The tension in our shop is unbearable and others have complained. Is there some workplace standard addressing whistling? I can’t imagine any of my supervisors allowing someone to whistle at will in their office, but because I am in a carpenter shop on an airbase they don’t feel we deserve the same standards.” — David Sota
Question from the editors: “We’re thinking about hosting a webinar on using the Bibliography Tool in Word 2007. Do you use this new feature that allows users to create a list of cited works that will then be available in every new document? Would you use it if you knew how? Would you be interested in a training webinar on how to use it?” — Forum editors
Question: “In our company, employees never receive raises. We only get quarterly bonuses for meeting specific goals. Although the CEO says "we couldn’t do it without you," he makes no effort to improve our salaries. This job provides valuable experience in a profession that I love, so I hate to think about leaving. I really enjoy my work, my co-workers and the relaxed environment. On the other hand, my pay is still very low after two years. Any advice?” — Worth More
As part of HR Professionals Week, our sister newsletter, The HR Specialist, is collecting tales of what can go wrong when candidates sit down opposite an HR professional or hiring manager. So far, we’ve heard stories about kittens, nail polish and the police. Share your story — from either side of the interview desk — at the HR Specialist Forum this week.
Question: “My team is responsible for creating a binder for our monthly board meetings. We have to set deadlines, collect reports from several departments, assemble the contents and overnight them. One department is always overdue with their reports, usually because customers are late getting essential information to them. We always give this group a grace period, but it pushes my team to work late. My boss suggested shipping in two phases: first with reports that come in before the due date and the second with those that come in after. Any other good ideas to maximize our efficiency? — Bright Idea Seeker
Question: "Although I’m viewed positively at work, I believe my reserved demeanor is holding me back. I’m not shy, but I have trouble making small talk. In meetings, I give input whenever I’m asked, but seldom volunteer information. As a result, I’ve been labeled a quiet person. Although I prefer working alone at my computer, I know that won’t get me where I want to go. Can you suggest some communication strategies for meetings and social situations?" — Not a Talker
It’s a myth that good work makes a good career—rather, good office politics makes a good career, says career columnist Penelope Trunk. Here’s are four common-sense rules to follow. They’ll make people want to work with you, and boost your credibility and influence in the process.
Question: “My boss is always running late for appointments and meetings. I am the one who has to call and explain his tardiness or cancel a meeting. Sometimes, this involves canceling multiple times with the same person. I don’t know if I should be apologetic on his behalf, since it’s frequently the same group of people. I’m sure they are getting tired of it. What are some suggestions for handling this?” — Anonymous
Question: “I’m a young executive secretary. I like my job now, but wonder what career opportunities the profession would offer in the future. What should I do to build my career skills? Is this a good field for the younger generation?” — Anonymous
Read any good books lately? Maybe the next one you ought to pick up is your organization’s own policy and procedures handbook. If I were to quiz you about it right now, could you score 100%? If not, as one court recently warned, a judge may just... throw the book at you!