Ask Gail: Surviving the Workplace

Gail Kasper stopped by with some answers to viewers questions on surviving the workplace...

Is it okay to date people your work with?
There are no federal or state laws that prohibit employee dating, but there are also no laws which prevent companies from creating policies that prohibit employee dating. So, first and foremost, what is the company policy on inter-office relationships? If it’s okay to get involved, think logically and take the time to learn as much as you can about your co-worker before taking the plunge. Do your personalities match? Is it merely an attraction or something more? Is this a job or a career? Would you want to jeopardize a career? It’s time to weigh the results of your actions considering both sides of the situation.
Is it better out in the open or should you keep it hidden? Personal relationships in work can create a very awkward situation, particularly if you are involved in daily business transactions with your romantic counterpart. My suggestion would be to keep it hidden. A company environment is a place for work. Keep it professional. Rest assured, the gossip will spread soon enough.

MORE AFTER THE JUMP...

What do you do if you share a cubicle with someone who talks too much and is keeping you from getting your work done?
Your cube-friend may not understand the focus that is required with the work you do. Explaining the importance of “quiet” in getting your work done, may help them change their habits. You might also schedule specific times during the day to take a brief chat break with your cube friend. If all falls on deaf ears, talk to your boss. Your boss will appreciate your work ethic and commitment and can then talk to person, or their boss, who would then deal with the situation.

How do you deal with a co-worker that takes credit for your work?
When this happens, it is very disappointing and unfortunately, it may be well after the credit is given before you realize what has happened. It is always to your benefit to tell someone how you feel. Letting this person know, in a very diplomatic way, that you are very disappointed with how they handled the situation will get the conversation off to a good start. Regardless, when it comes to putting in that extra effort, in this day and age, it is very important to document actions taken and ideas shared, through e-mail. This will alleviate any confusion in the future.

I've been working for my company for six years, straight out of college, and have been passed up for many promotions. How do I get my boss to see me in a different light? How can I convince him that I'm ready for a promotion?
The first thing you must do is make it known that you are looking to be promoted. Very often, employees do not share their ultimate goals with employers and employers take for granted that they are happy where they are. Set a sit-down appointment with your boss. Do not mention your motives in passing in the hallway. An appointment says “important” and you want your boss to understand the seriousness of what you are discussing. Go into the meeting with a plan. Ask your boss to talk openly about your accomplishments, your strengths, and areas to improve. Ask for their assistance in establishing a plan with timelines so that you can meet your goals. If you want to be taken seriously, be consistent with your work, your efforts, and your follow-up.

If you have a question for gail, log onto her website at www.gailkasper.com.