Much like the beginning stages of dating someone, interviewing with a company can give you that butterfly effect. And when you’re finally asked to officially be in a relationship, (offered the job), you think there is no better person (company) for you!
Soon enough, the butterflies fly away and you’re not nodding your head “yeah” a la Miley Cyrus. You’re probably thinking of how to bring up particular issues that have been building up. Instead of arguing with your boyfriend/girlfriend with, “what happened to the weekend you promised we’d go hiking?” it can be wondering to your boss, “what happened to the travel reimbursement that was promised?”
Sometimes, you find out that the person you’re dating is actually a real a-hole. Unfortunately, a bad boss can be much worse in this situation, as a quick dump to the curb isn’t an option. What’s worse: putting your heart in jeopardy, or your means of living?
While I’m no relationship expert, I have encountered some sticky situations with employers, and learned how to confront them properly. Here’s how to deal when the honeymoon phase of the job is over.
Set ground rules
In a relationship, if you’re more of a phone person than a texter, make sure your significant other knows that–and communicate accordingly. If you’re not looking for something serious, put it on the table instead of spinning a misleading web. Try to take a similar approach with your boss. For instance, if you’re hired as full-time, make sure your boss doesn’t call you a month later switching you to part-time. It’s not a bad idea to get an official written agreement to make sure you’re not stuck in unemployment a month later.
Get it in writing
If your boss promises to reimburse you for gas money, yet it fails to show up in your paycheck, speak up. Being timid won’t pay for your tank, so ask to speak with your boss privately and remind him or her of the conversation. Also, try to establish a set payment plan so you don’t have to keep asking about it. For example, you could say, “I was wondering when I can expect to see a check for my travel expenses as we discussed upon hiring. And going forward, can it be included every other week?” Don’t be afraid to stick up for yourself.
Don’t make the same mistake twice
Inevitably, every new employee makes mistakes when first starting out. It could be as simple as not knowing where a light switch is, or as severe as faxing an important file to the wrong place.
Alexis Capozzi, 21, of North Andover, MA says not to beat yourself up over these small mishaps. “Keep in mind that all you can do, is the best you can do. No one can ask more of you than that.” Make sure you try your hardest and meet your own standards at the end of everyday.
If your boss calls you out on your mistake in a less than respectful way, swallow your pride. You can call your boss a jerk in your head, just not out loud. Instead, send an email apologizing for the mistake you made and thank your boss for understanding. Ever heard of the phrase “kill them with kindness?” Use it.
In this economy, make sure you’re covered, because at the end of the day, a business is a business, and you are replaceable. If you remain respectful, yet assertive, you will show your boss that even though you’re younger, you are not any less wise.
..And once you get to leave, you can look forward to dedicating this song to your special supervisor someone:
