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Q: My cousin needs customers for his pool-construction business, so I said OK to a backyard pool. But now my company is starting to lay off employees, and I’m nervous about spending big money on something my family really doesn’t need. How do I get out of this? A: Apply large doses of honesty and [...]
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Q: I have just started a new job in a busy PR office. I’ve left several messages for the director of an organization, but he hasn’t called back. What should I do? A: Try once more. This time, say “Mr. Johnson, this is Jane Stewart, following up regarding the information I’ve requested. I’m worried about [...]
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Q: My company has asked employees to volunteer for a charity event. I don’t like being pressured, but I’d probably comply – except the event is on a weekend when I already have plans. What do I do? A: Wow – this is a tough one! Sacrificing a weekend to your company is a big [...]
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Q: My office has a “coffee club” where coworkers contribute funds and supplies to keep the caffeine flowing. Lately I’ve realized that some coworkers don’t chip in at all, but still help themselves to a couple of cups each day. Am I right to say something? A: If it’s really grating on your nerves, then [...]
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Q: My boss failed to include me on a meeting announcement. All of my other coworkers were invited, so now I’m wondering if there was an oversight and I’m truly supposed to show up or if the boss is trying to send me a message. What should I do now? A: If you think this [...]
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Q: During my yearly review, my boss asked how I was doing. Truthfully, I’d had a hard couple of months. Her concern was so touching that I got weepy and told her more than I should have about my personal life. As soon as I left the office, I felt like a fool. Now what [...]
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Q: My coworker drowns herself in so much perfume that I’ve begun to feel nauseated when around her. What should I do? A: If your coworkers is someone you know pretty well, it’s fair to say: “I’m sure you don’t realize this, but I get woozy from your perfume. Could you possibly wear less?” Telling [...]
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Q: I’m throwing a retirement party for a friend, and I’m not sure about the rules. Should family as well as work friends be invited? And are “retirement gifts” appropriate? A: The guest list is entirely your call. It could be strictly family and friends, or you could invite some close colleagues. Companies often organize [...]
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Q: My coworker has an annoying habit of picking my brain for business ideas, then presenting them as her own! How can I avoid being exploited without being out-and-about rude to her? A: Brainstorming among coworkers can get dicey, for the very reason you’ve discovered. On the other hand, two heads are often better than [...]
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Q: My cousin is an at-home salesperson, and she frequently asks me to product demonstrations at her house. I’ve told her that money is tight right now and have consistently declined to attend. Yet last month alone, she invited me to two of these events. Is there a polite way to get her to stop? [...]
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The Gift of Good Manners
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