Ask Sue
A Weekly Q&A Column About Professionalism, Etiquette and Problems in the Workplace
by Sue Morem

Betrayed

Dear Sue: I worked in the credit department of my company setting up new accounts until I was moved into another department. Once I settled into the new job, I was asked to train someone to be my backup for the times I would be gone. Everything was fine until I was told that I was being moved once again. 

Now I feel betrayed, and I am no longer happy with this company. I talked to my supervisor and her supervisor about this, but they both told me that I should forget about my previous position and be happy where I am. But I can't do that and I am not happy. What am I to do? 

- Unhappy

Sue Says: I am not sure I understand why you are so unhappy. Are these lateral moves? Are you gaining additional experience with each move? Are you longing to have more input in these moves or are you simply uncomfortable with change?

Rather than feeling as though something is being taken away from you each time you move, try to view each move as a chance to expand your knowledge and future career opportunities.

Obviously your supervisors see you as a capable individual. They have confidence in your ability to train other employees and take on new challenges.

Being able to adapt to change is important. There is very little in business today that isn't or won't be changing. If you resist change, you are resisting opportunities. 

Perhaps if you focus on the positive aspects of each move you will feel better about your job and the company you work for. 

Dear Sue: My supervisor was due to give me a salary review this summer. Last year she was over two months late meeting with me. When I approached her to inquire about it, she told me not to worry about it and that she will meet with me when things slow down.

It is important that I find out how much money I will be making so that I can make some important financial decisions. I know she has been very busy, but it is so hard to wait. I feel as though my life is on hold. 

I keep getting more and more duties dumped on me and my only reward for it all is a pat on the back. I do hear a lot of praise, but would prefer to have a review and a pay increase. What should I do? 

- Waiting

Sue Says: It is wrong for your supervisor to put off your review, but obviously it isn't as important to her as it is to you. She will undoubtedly continue to put you off until she is forced to set a date and get it done. Tell your supervisor what you have told me and insist that she set a time to do your review. You have every right to a review, so be persistent.

Dear Sue: The company I work for was sold about six months ago. Rumor has it that the big boss is unhappy with my performance. However, he has never said anything to me. 

I think I do a great job, but I have always worked for smaller companies and this is now a large corporation. I do not know what to do -- should I move on or stay and confront him? 

- Wondering

Sue Says: If you would like to stay where you are, stay. If you are looking for a reason to leave, then use this as an excuse, but keep in mind that you are leaving without just cause. While some rumors are true, many are not.

Whether you decide to go or stay, you may as well find out if there is any truth to what you have heard. Approach your boss and ask him if he has any problems with you or your performance. This is the only way you will know for sure where you stand with him. 

Sue Morem is a professional speaker, trainer and syndicated columnist. She is author of the newly released 101 Tips for Graduates and How to Gain the Professional Edge, Second Edition. You can contact her by email at asksue@suemorem.com or visit her web site at http://www.suemorem.com. 

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