Here are five answers to five questions. Let’s dive in…
1. When I broke my ankle, my mom called my boss’s boss
Earlier this year, I suffered a severe ankle injury that left me in no state to contact work myself. My mom, after visiting me, took it upon herself to call my company’s CEO to inform them of my situation. While I appreciate her concern, I found this approach unprofessional. What are your thoughts on this scenario?
If you were expected at work that day, it’s understandable for your mom to make that call on your behalf. However, since you weren’t working that day, it would have been more appropriate for her to leave the notification to you once you were in a better state to do so.
It’s not a major breach of professionalism, but your mom could have handled the situation differently. If this is a recurring pattern, it’s worth discussing boundaries with her.
Related:
when you’re sick, can you have someone else call your office on your behalf?
2. I’m drowning in informational interview requests
As someone working in biotech venture capital with a Ph.D., I receive numerous requests for informational interviews from individuals seeking advice on breaking into the field. How can I manage these requests while maintaining my own sanity?
It’s perfectly fine to decline some requests due to your schedule. Consider hosting monthly “office hours” for all interested individuals to join via Zoom. This way, you can address multiple inquiries in a single session while supporting aspiring professionals.
3. Different teams are held to different standards
As a senior employee overseeing multiple teams, I’ve noticed varying standards of work acceptance among team leaders. How should I navigate this discrepancy?
Differences in managerial standards are common across teams. While it may be frustrating, it’s crucial to focus on the outcomes each team delivers rather than direct comparisons. If the quality of work on a particular team is concerning, consider addressing it with the relevant manager for a more consistent approach.
4. Removing the dates of your work history on your resume
An HR professional suggested omitting specific employment dates on a resume and instead using general terms like “two years.” Is this a recommended practice?
Absolutely not. Traditional resume formats include specific dates to provide clarity on your work history. Most employers prefer this standard format for assessing candidates.
5. How do I give notice at a job I’m passionate about?
Despite my passion for my current role, I’ve been offered a position that aligns better with my career goals. How should I inform my current employer about my decision to leave?
Be honest with your boss about the unexpected opportunity and emphasize your appreciation for the work and team. Leaving for a better fit does not diminish your dedication to the current project, and it’s essential to prioritize your professional growth.
