Vivid Epiphany » Inspired Workplace Q&A

Inspired Workplace Q&A: When is it Time to Go?

Carolann Jacobs — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:03:03 +0000

Photo By Martin Stelbrink

Q: I have grown to hate my job. I feel the dread coming on sometime around 6:00pm on Sunday night. I don’t want to get out of bed in the morning. As hard as I try, I am not doing a very good job (lord knows neither the people I report to nor the ones who report to me look satisfied). There are probably some things I could do to change things, but I don’t know if I want to or if I even have the energy. I am so sick of corporate culture. Maybe I should start my own business. You’re always saying that I can improve my situation by improving my leadership and communication skills, but when is it time just to leave?

Inspired Workplace Q&A – Why Can’t I Get Promoted?

Carolann Jacobs — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:21:23 +0000

Photo by Josh Harper

Q: I am a middle manager in a mid-sized technology company. For the last three years, I have received an “exceeds expectations” on my reviews. I am at the top of my job grade (band), and I’ve applied for positions with higher responsibility twice. Both times, I was passed over. Once, it was for an external candidate who’s now come and gone. That time, my manager told me that the company was looking for someone “more seasoned. “The second time, the position went to one of my peers whom I don’t think was as qualified. The excuse they gave me was that I needed to improve my communication skills. I’ve always been known as being an excellent communicator both verbal and written. What’s going on?

Inspirational Workplace Q&A – I am losing my job, but I don’t know when…

Carolann Jacobs — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:00:25 +0000

Q. At the end of last year, I received the top rating on my performance review. I asked if any layoffs were on the horizon, and my manager told me that it was possible, but my job was safe. I thought I’d be lower on the list for a reduction because I did so well. About two weeks ago, I got my 30 day notice of a lay off. I was shocked, and I haven’t really done anything to look for another position. Now, my manager tells me that they may need me around for another month or two. He thinks that we might be able to extend it out until this storm has passed. I’d like to keep my job if I can. What should I do?

Inspirational Workplace Q&A – We’re Having a RIF. What Can We Do To Help Our Laid Off Employees Make the Transition

Carolann Jacobs — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:00:36 +0000

Photo by Tim O'Brien

Q: I am so overwhelmed. I work in Human Resources for a mid-size business, and we’re having to reduce our staff. I’ve worked side-by-side for several years with many of these people, and it breaks my heart that we’re having to do this. How can I make this easier for them.