Getting your player ready...
Dear J.T. & Dale: I’ve been working at a small animal practice for a year now and was promised a promotion. However, the vet recently hired someone for the job I’ve been wanting. So I found the job I wanted with a larger animal practice and gave my current employer a proper two weeks’ notice. However, she and my co-workers are now mad at me and feel the need to tell me how “lazy” I am. I am shocked and hurt. I am considering walking off my job because I am sick of caring for a place that doesn’t care about me. – Tiffany
J.T.: No, don’t do it! Sure, they’re being childish, but walking off will only allow them to justify their criticisms. They are pushing you to do something that will help them feel validated. Don’t let them.
DALE: You’d be surprised how common it is for a boss and co-workers to turn on the one who’s leaving. It’s especially prevalent in offices where the leader says, “We’re a family,” which sounds sweet and charming but sets up a nasty dynamic of dependency and permission, making departures feel like betrayals.
J.T.: I doubt that will make Tiffany feel better. I just hope she’ll stay strong and complete her two weeks. That way, later on, if she ever needs a reference, they can’t say, “She just up and left us.”
DALE: Well … I don’t see a glowing reference coming her way from that direction. Still, while I agree that she should refuse to live down to the level of her colleagues, she might be able to live up to the highest standards of dignity and still get out. What you do, Tiffany, is go to your boss and say that you’re happy to soldier on for the two weeks, but if she prefers you to depart sooner, you’re willing. The vet undoubtedly will say that she needs your help while they find a new person. Fine. Then ask if she believes your work has suddenly deteriorated, pointing out that you want to excel, right to the end. It’d be almost impossible for her to continue to work small in the face of a gesture as large as that.
Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m just starting my undergraduate degree, and I’m wondering if I’ll have a job at the end of it. I’d love to major in economics but I definitely do not want to go to grad school. However, looking at the recent job-market trends, I’m seriously considering majoring in statistics or even (horror!) straight math, since it seems like the more technical your major, the better your chance of employment. What should I do to increase my future employability whilst in college? – Ed
DALE: Whilst? Whilst? You definitely are cut out for economics, and I say that as someone who possesses a pair of econ degrees. As for grad school, I understand how you feel: At some point, economics merges into straight – horror – math, which probably is why the profession’s visibility has dimmed. As for your question, when you tell people you majored in econ, they will know you are someone who likes a challenge, and that you have the discipline and IQ for whatever job you aspire to.
J.T.: I agree: Stay in economics. People who love what they do attract the best employers.
DALE: Figure out which professors are well-connected in the industry and/or government. They can introduce you to recent grads who can help you figure out the companies and positions in which to seek a subspecialty.
J.T.: Make it a goal to have mentors in the profession and do internships – the more, the better. The funny thing is, I have no doubt you’ll find a job. Anyone already thinking about life after college whilst preparing to be a freshman is going to do well!
