Dear Readers:
Over the holidays, I received quite a few emails commenting on the work philosophy I developed (H.EA.R.T. ™) and requesting an overview of what it is all about. H.EA.R.T.™ is an acronym for Honesty, Empathy, Adaptability, Responsibility, and Teamwork enveloped in passion and respect. A workplace is more effective, as is one’s life, if the basic principles of each element in this H.EA.R.T.™ philosophy are followed. Recognizing that it is the beginning of a new year, a time for reflection and resolution, I am hopeful that all of you will assess your aspirations and consider applying H.EA.R.T.™ in your work and personal lives.
More information on H.E.A.R.T.™ can be found on my Web site.
Dear Roze:
I’m really bothered by what I think is unethical behavior of one of my colleagues. Our company has a postage meter that we’re all allowed to use, but it’s understood that it’s only for work-related mail. This colleague uses it for his personal mail too. I’ve seen him put his household bills and family birthday cards through it. I don’t want to get him in trouble, but he shouldn’t be doing this. It’s not right. How should I handle this?
-Stamp out personal postage use
Dear Stamp out personal postage use:
Depending on what kind of relationship you have with this person, you can either talk to him about what is considered to be proper use of the meter the next time you see him using it for personal items; or you can ask the appropriate person in your organization to send out a communication to everyone in the office that specifies the allowable uses of the meter. Also, have the communication posted at the site of the postage meter. That being said, is it possible that your colleague is reimbursing the company when he uses the meter for his personal mail?
Dear Roze:
I’ve been a stay-at-home mother for almost ten years. Like most families, ours is feeling the recession. I want to alleviate some of my husband’s stresses, so I’ve decided to go back to work. I only want to work part-time out of our home, so I can be there I’ll be there when my children get out of school. I’m okay with making about $30,000. I have a bachelor’s degree in the liberal arts and a lot of experience in sales. I really don’t want to be a telemarketer or a medical transcriptionist, jobs people have been suggesting to me. Some of my friends and family have told me that I’m not being realistic and that I’m too rigid with the type of work I’m willing to do. They say I’m going to be very disappointed. What do you think?
-Know what I want
Dear Know what I want:
I applaud you for wanting to assist your husband and I understand and respect your specific desires in a job, but given the bleak economic climate, the unusually high number of individuals in search of work, and the fact that you have been out of the workforce for quite some time, it would be in your best interest to be more flexible and open-minded about the type of work you are willing to do, your hours, and pay. Do not limit yourself; consider all job possibilities.
Best of luck!
© 2010 Rozanne R. Worrell
