Dear Roze:
What’s your position with the call waiting feature on phones? I take issue with individuals who call me and then either put me on hold or end the conversation because another call comes in that they “have to take.” They’re the ones who initiated the contact but I’m the one who’s selling or trying to sell them my services. I think it’s offensive and rude. It’s as if they’re saying I’m not as important as the person who’s beeping in. It’s one thing if it’s just once in awhile, but it happens a lot. By the way, I don’t have and will never have this feature on my phone. What should I do?
Where’s the etiquette?
Dear Where’s the etiquette?:
Although no one likes to be put on hold or told that another call needs to be taken over theirs, it happens all the time. Many people prefer to have this feature so as not to miss what they consider to be an important call. Since you most likely need something from these individuals, I suggest that you do one of three things: stay on the line, politely tell them to call you back when they are finished with the other caller, or offer to call them back when it will be best for them. Hang in there!
Dear Roze:
I know it’s not a good time to leave my job but I hate where I am. If I didn’t need the income and health insurance, I’d have given my notice a long time ago. I’ve been working in the private sector for over 20 years, but I want to make a big change and do humanitarian work for a prominent foundation or nationally recognized non-profit organization. I have to get paid and receive health benefits. I believe I can significantly contribute to their PR/marketing campaigns. Any suggestions?
Wanting different career
Dear Wanting different career:
Recognizing how difficult it is to find a job in this economy, I suggest that you stay with your current job and volunteer your services with a foundation or a cause you are passionate about. While volunteering, you can network and make connections that could lead to an offer of employment. You can also see if this is something you would like to do as a paid employee. If you decide to apply for jobs in this arena, do not lose sight of the fact that the non-profit job market is just as competitive as the private sector. Write your resume in such a way that illustrates how your experiences and successes can be applied to this field, and be sure each cover letter explicitly states what you can do for the particular organization you are applying to. And, obviously, do not forget to identify any volunteer work you currently do or have done in the past.
Dear Roze:
I’m in top management of my organization and oftentimes our staff will share information with me that they don’t share with the other two top managers, even though the information may pertain to their interactions with these managers. I often end up knowing more and having a clearer picture of what is going on than if I only heard things from my constituents, but this makes me feel conflicted. Help!
Conflicted
Dear Conflicted:
Look at your situation as a golden opportunity. Use the information wisely. Let it help you in your dealings with your fellow managers as well as the staff without losing anyone’s trust and/or burning any bridges.
© 2010 Rozanne R. Worrell
