View Full Version : New job update
So I've been at the new job 7 weeks now. I'm going to admit that I'm struggling.
Boss had automated so many functions in his massive Excel workbook in order to be very efficient as he was a one man operation for 18 years. Homegrown system except the small program (which someone else developed) used to transmit to Customs. This program is used by very small broker and uses older programming language. COBAL, I believe. The automated functions were things like sending an email with a customs release or an invoice to a customer.
I came from 13.5 years at a company that did things VERY different. Program used was much more "modern." Windows based. Used by a ton of brokers/freight forwarders. I had used some version of that program for most of my time there. One forwarder we clear shipments for recently changed to the program I used at the old company and I've actually been giving them some tips.
Boss does things like have proper bits of software that allow you to convert pdf documents to Excel. I never had this at the old company. Then we can at least copy and paste from the shipper's invoice to work up the customs clearance. Boss will do things like excel formulas to strip unneeded data or lines out so he can paste into the big excel workbook in one fell swoop. I have NEVER done formulas in Excel, and frankly, I am simply not able to cope with them right now. It's too much. So I copy/paste what I can and then I have to manually enter the rest. I'm still saving time over how I used to do things at the old company.
There was one important procedure that boss does that was totally opposite how old company did it. As a result, I'll admit I had a difficult time with it. FINALLY got it today.
Boss got a little frustrated today and said it was like trying to shove a square peg (old company's procedures) into a cheese sandwich (his company). He does value all my industry experience and knowledge (he told me this yesterday).
I will admit some of the issues have been totally my fault. I've made some data entry issues and boss wants to approve files for the time being before I transmit to customs. I'm trying to slow down. He did say there's no need to feel any pressure to go fast.
It doesn't help that there have been a lot of technical issues. I have to stop and text him on Microsoft Teams so he can remote into my computer and see whatever the issue is so it can be fixed. The Excel workbook is programmed using VBA.
He at least isn't a screaming witch like my old boss. And I told him that yesterday when we had a 90 minute talk going over some things. She would scream at you for things you had done wrong in the middle of the open office.
Good thing I don't have any current upstairs neighbors as I've been screaming at the computer out of frustration due to the tech issues. Today I was just so frustrated that I wanted to just put my head on my desk and cry. If you have one dash or a period where there's shouldn't be, it can throw the whole dang thing off.
I'm trying to be kinder to myself, but I can be very hard on myself and I've just been beating myself up. I feel like such an incompetent. Boss said he's very hard on himself (perfectionist actually) and I told him I am as well. So we get that. I was last at the old job almost six months ago, but there's 13.5 years of habits to overcome.
After two months of being a sloth, I rejoined the gym last weekend. I've only gone twice (actually went at lunch yesterday and that worked out well), but I feel better already to be moving. I'd have gone more this week, but my car was at the dealership for something to be fixed.
I'm continuing to dive and probably will through the winter.
I just needed to vent.
@jp1, I remember you saying it took about six months to feel comfortable/get used to on your current company's system. I think you said it was more primitive than what you had at the previous job. What were your difficulties?
I went from a modern system at my previous employer to an old DOS based one where I am now and it took a lot of getting used to. Among other things having to tab between fields threw me - I had not done that since the early 90's. And there was not a back arrow, instead you scroll up. People told me the whole first year you are considered a newbie and hang in there.
There are online Excel tutorials you can do. Companies like Robert Half offer them for free.
You are learning from every mistake, and you will get there.
I went from a modern system at my previous employer to an old DOS based one where I am now and it took a lot of getting used to. Among other things having to tab between fields threw me - I had not done that since the early 90's. And there was not a back arrow, instead you scroll up. People told me the whole first year you are considered a newbie and hang in there.
There are online Excel tutorials you can do. Companies like Robert Half offer them for free.
You are learning from every mistake, and you will get there.
Yes, having to tab between fields still throws me. And if you don't tab through all the fields the first time you're in a file, then that throws everything off! ARGH!
Scroll up? Oh, my!
The Excel tutorials would help for things like the formulas, but I can't just cope with that right now. The big excel workbook is full of fields where you fill in data. It's not just a spreadsheet. I still can't believe that you can do stuff like this with excel!
Thanks for the support!
Vent away! It will take time but you will get there.
happystuff
9-26-20, 10:08am
From where you were to where you are now, you have done well, Tradd!!! Definitely be kinder to yourself and realize that you really are doing a good job! Eventually it will become "second nature" and even more enjoyable.
SteveinMN
9-26-20, 11:05am
Tradd, you're undoing 13 years of muscle and mental memory. It will take some time. And you're doing this with no co-workers other than your boss. For adapting to a completely different workflow, you're doing quite well after so short a time.
Your boss will have to adapt, too, to no longer being a one-man show.
iris lilies
9-26-20, 11:12am
Tradd, you're undoing 13 years of muscle and mental memory. It will take some time. And you're doing this with no co-workers other than your boss. For adapting to a completely different workflow, you're doing quite well after so short a time.
Your boss will have to adapt, too, to no longer being a one-man show.
That is a good way to look at it.Tradd, hang in there, and thanks for the report.
That IS a good way to look at it, Steve. Thanks!
Boss and I had a two hour call on Tuesday. Make a world of difference. Boss said today that I’ve been doing a fab job the past three days. Yay! Today I even discovered that the little menu that pops up in Excel when you’re pasting something and right click allows you to strip out unneeded stuff without having to resort to the substitute formula. Boss said he didn’t even know about that! I taught the excel nerd something. :D I tried the formula earlier in the week, but it’s cumbersome compared with this paste shortcut.
Good way to end the week.
happystuff
10-3-20, 8:25am
You mean "paste special"? There are a couple of different ones and they are super handy! To be figuring out excel is super impressive!!! Congrats!
I had an immediate supervisor who did everything in Excel--even stuff you might normally do in word. But she was a marvel--a Chinese woman who had taught in Israel, bought her first computer there, and figured it out in Hebrew. She was impressive.
You mean "paste special"? There are a couple of different ones and they are super handy! To be figuring out excel is super impressive!!! Congrats!
Well, I noticed the paste special thing, as you call it, and decided to see what it was for the clipboard 123 option. I already used it to paste just a photo, etc. I couldn’t believe it worked for what I was trying to do AND that the boss didn’t know about it!
I had an immediate supervisor who did everything in Excel--even stuff you might normally do in word. But she was a marvel--a Chinese woman who had taught in Israel, bought her first computer there, and figured it out in Hebrew. She was impressive.
Wow. That is impressive!
Jane v2.0
10-3-20, 10:31am
Wow. That is impressive!
We had a business lunch where we tried our Arabic on each other. I lost that round, too. :~) My Arabic is pretty much limited to counting to seven and writing my name...
Teacher Terry
10-3-20, 10:32am
Great news Tradd!
Jane v2.0
10-3-20, 11:13am
You're coming along faster than your boss probably thought possible. Your new job sounds ideal--challenging technology and all.
gimmethesimplelife
10-9-20, 8:10pm
I can't really comment as office work is not my forte and on my last job, what interaction I had with computers/software was very user friendly and had logical flow. This new job? Different industry, different system to get used to. I'm going to be there myself, soon, Tradd. Glad it's going OK overall for you. Rob
I can't really comment as office work is not my forte and on my last job, what interaction I had with computers/software was very user friendly and had logical flow. This new job? Different industry, different system to get used to. I'm going to be there myself, soon, Tradd. Glad it's going OK overall for you. Rob
Thanks.
I'm off on Friday (I get two weeks vacation a year and get three days for the rest of this year). Going to OH for a diving class this weekend. Anyway, this is showing the massive difference from the old job. I would have been working like crazy to get everything done ahead I could. I would be repeatedly told that if I didn't, there would be hell to pay. The way new boss works stuff, we are working on customs clearances more than a week in advance, provided we have all the needed paperwork from the customer. Otherwise, we deal with stuff as we get it if it's sent with less notice. Some people have a habit of sending paperwork just a day or two before their shipments arrive in the US.
It also helps that I'm no longer handling the international transportation, just the customs clearances. I used to spend a boatload of time on that.
Enjoy your minivacation!!!!
I was gone all weekend. Got home at about 1030 on Sunday night after diving until about 4:30 and having a 5 hour drive home. I got to bed late, of course. I got up at 745 on Monday morning (I "start" at 8). By 11am I was so bleary. I asked the boss if he would mind if I took my lunch early and longer, as I badly needed a nap. He had absolutely no issues with that. Said I'm salary and I know what needs to be done. All that's required is I let him know, which I had done.
Wow! I slept for about 90 minutes and felt SO much better. I ended up working two hours later that day. It just worked out so well. I'm continually amazed at the new job/boss!
Teacher Terry
10-21-20, 1:04pm
You have a smart boss.
Yep. Much better to let me take the nap and come back awake then take chances with errors, etc. He’s pretty flexible.
Another plus about new job - don’t have boss forcing their version of celebrating a holiday on me!
:D
Boss suggested an Excel online class. He will cover the cost. I’m researching options. Any recommendations? Needs to cover formulas and such.
herbgeek
11-13-20, 10:59am
Any recommendations?
I'd try a free one first to see how much you can get out of it. The paid Microsoft training I've taken has been kind of hit or miss as far as value for the amount paid. I've been pretty happy with the classes I've taken through Coursera, and I see they have a free Excel class.
Someone suggested the library, but their offerings are currently discontinued due to the plague.
I’ll check the one you suggested out. Thanks!
herbgeek
11-13-20, 11:07am
My library has a program which allows you access to all kinds of online classes- perhaps yours does as well? Worth an inquiry.
My library has a program which allows you access to all kinds of online classes- perhaps yours does as well? Worth an inquiry.
Already checked. Nothing of this sort online.
JaneV2.0
11-13-20, 12:16pm
I'd get something like "Excel For dummies" to supplement your class. I have Excel for Beginners ($4.99) in my Kindle collection.
A friend taught herself basic algebra--enough to challenge her college math requirement--with a similar book.
Tradd, I'm so glad your new job and boss are remaining a pleasant change. How nice it is to be treated as an adult.
happystuff
11-18-20, 12:00pm
Okay, so I am now being trained in a new area - HOPEFULLY temporarily!!! - as I am now packaging items before final shipment. It entails standing at a table, confirming items and packing out. Just standing. For 8 hours. Standing. Sigh...
I definitely enjoyed the picking better as I was able to move and remain active. If this new position is where they plan to keep me, I'll definitely be looking for a new job. Hopefully, it is just a "training" period for temporary assistance as needed.
Teacher Terry
11-18-20, 12:08pm
Standing in one spot is so hard on the back. Walking is so much better.
happystuff
11-18-20, 12:14pm
Standing in one spot is so hard on the back. Walking is so much better.
Definitely! My back hurt so bad last night, I wasn't sure I would make it through the last 2 hours. But... trying to remain optimistic and, hopefully, this will be a very short term assignment.
Happy, Biofreeze is wonderful for aching muscles/joints. You can get it at any big box store or pharmacy. Worth every penny. I slather it on my bad knees every morning. Suggest Motrin, Advil, or pain killer of choice, as well.
happystuff
11-18-20, 1:48pm
Happy, Biofreeze is wonderful for aching muscles/joints. You can get it at any big box store or pharmacy. Worth every penny. I slather it on my bad knees every morning. Suggest Motrin, Advil, or pain killer of choice, as well.
Made note of the Biofreeze, thanks, Tradd. I have been doing the various pain killers, but I really don't like taking them often - rarely, if at all. However, I feel like I've been taking a lot lately. But, then again, they do help so... LOL - damned if I do and damned if I don't. :doh:
I see no reason that those picking and those standing still, couldn’t trade places every hour throughout the shift.
When will we learn that humans are not machines.
I see no reason that those picking and those standing still, couldn’t trade places every hour throughout the shift.
When will we learn that humans are not machines.
When the people who assume that they are have been permanently removed from power by the humans they assume to be machines.
rosarugosa
11-19-20, 6:17am
Oh no, Happy, I hope the change is temporary as well. That sounds unpleasant.
happystuff
11-19-20, 11:10am
Thanks, all. This too, shall pass. LOL. It'll be fine - one way or another.
Definitely! My back hurt so bad last night, I wasn't sure I would make it through the last 2 hours. But... trying to remain optimistic and, hopefully, this will be a very short term assignment.
Shoes are the most important thing for standing on your feet. I wore Birkenstock Boston's for the last 30 years of my OR Nursing career. Never had a sore back.
Also, if you can have a step of any sort in front of your standing station, put a foot up and that relieves the back. Just 3-5 inches is plenty.
happystuff
11-19-20, 1:48pm
Shoes are the most important thing for standing on your feet. I wore Birkenstock Boston's for the last 30 years of my OR Nursing career. Never had a sore back.
Also, if you can have a step of any sort in front of your standing station, put a foot up and that relieves the back. Just 3-5 inches is plenty.
Thanks so much! I've made note of the shoes and will looking into them.
He is probably dealing with challenges himself. Take a short mental break once an hour to refresh yourself. With numbers and letters to enter, it is checking and triple checking yourself. You are smart and will figure out a way to manage your attention.
He is probably dealing with challenges himself. Take a short mental break once an hour to refresh yourself. With numbers and letters to enter, it is checking and triple checking yourself. You are smart and will figure out a way to manage your attention.
That’s what I suspect, too.
My Apple Watch gives me a reminder to stand and move every hour. But taking a bit more of a break should help. Thanks!
That’s what I suspect, too.
My Apple Watch gives me a reminder to stand and move every hour. But taking a bit more of a break should help. Thanks!
Just a thought, Tradd. When did you last have your vision checked? Sometimes it helps to reassure oneself to do this.
Hopefully this will pass soon but it doesn't hurt to keep your eye on the job market.
I'm investigating FREE options through my library for the Excel courses. I knew they have offered in person MS Office classes, but they've stopped due to the plague. I just got the quarterly mailing from the library today and saw the notice for online courses. I couldn't find them before. Looking through them now.
FREE is a good place to start.
happystuff
11-21-20, 2:31pm
I'm investigating FREE options through my library for the Excel courses. I knew they have offered in person MS Office classes, but they've stopped due to the plague. I just got the quarterly mailing from the library today and saw the notice for online courses. I couldn't find them before. Looking through them now.
FREE is a good place to start.
FREE is definitely a good place to start! Best of luck!
Well, things have gotten rougher at work. I had such high hopes for this job but I’m really beginning to think it’s not going to work out. No matter how hard I try or how slow I go, boss finds fault with everything. I really think that he would have had issues with just about anyone he brought on from working by himself for nearly 20 years.
I’ve put a couple of feelers out to see if people know of any positions open.
chrisgermany
12-22-20, 10:24am
Good luck and (anyhow) happy holidays!
iris lilies
12-22-20, 10:28am
Oh Tradd, sorry to hear.
Teacher Terry
12-22-20, 10:52am
So sorry Tradd that it’s not working out.,
SteveinMN
12-22-20, 12:38pm
I really think that he would have had issues with just about anyone he brought on from working by himself for nearly 20 years.
I think you've hit the nail on the head. He's done it his way, without any pushback from anyone, for so long (and so successfully) that the idea of someone else operating more or less independently/differently is a little threatening to him and all he's built up. And he, not having been in a collaborative environment in which he has to swallow some of what he thinks, has no filters any more, so he criticizes before he has time to figure out that maybe what his co-worker did isn't the worst/is okay/might be better than the way he's done it. It's a truism that many creators make lousy bosses for the same reasons they make great creators.
I know there's an element of risk to it, but sitting him down and suggesting that he has to learn to adapt to you (or anyone else) or go back to being a solo act might be enough to rein him in (or at least make him start to think about how he will have to operate as a bigger company).
Steve, I’ve made some mistakes. A few big ones. I own up to them, but his reaction to the smallest mistakes is over the top. And there’s no defending myself.
happystuff
12-22-20, 1:01pm
So sorry, Tradd. I hope things work out - one way or another.
SteveinMN
12-22-20, 1:09pm
Steve, I’ve made some mistakes. A few big ones. I own up to them, but his reaction to the smallest mistakes is over the top. And there’s no defending myself.
I'm sorry to hear that (about your boss, that is; everyone makes mistakes). Bummer. I hope you can find a better spot to land.
ApatheticNoMore
12-22-20, 1:50pm
Good you are looking for another job, it really is best to jump before you are pushed in such situation.
But also to do one's best to manage the situation one is in as best as one can until one can move on to something better (ha manage, I've learned it's often in those dysfunctional situations more about managing difficult personalities and trying to figure out what those personalities need, than it is work performance - well unless the problem actually is learning more Excel or something). But maybe getting out should be the highest priority.
I like what Steve said - if you’re thinking about quitting anyway then having a heart to heart with the boss might help and there’s an outside chance boss will hear you and you can salvage the situation.
However I also have been in your position and these personality types can be difficult.
I don’t know what happened, but boss was a jerk on Monday and actually pleasant the rest of the week. Don’t know if it was the holidays or what. When boss isn’t being a jerk, he’s fine to work for. I enjoy the work and love working from home. There’s nothing out there right now, so I’m just going to take it a day at a time.
He is simply being a normal human being. One of the cautions about such a limited number who are working together is not to give too much weight to that one person on one day. Easier said than done, I know. We all have bad days. This type of working situation is new for you as well. You may not be aware when you are coming across as grumpy either.
You are good and experienced in your work. Remind yourself of this. Yes, you have stuff and skills to learn but that is ever true or you get bored. Remind yourself of that as well.
happystuff
12-28-20, 11:25am
He is simply being a normal human being. One of the cautions about such a limited number who are working together is not to give too much weight to that one person on one day. Easier said than done, I know. We all have bad days. This type of working situation is new for you as well. You may not be aware when you are coming across as grumpy either.
You are good and experienced in your work. Remind yourself of this. Yes, you have stuff and skills to learn but that is ever true or you get bored. Remind yourself of that as well.
Very good advice!
Hang in there, Tradd, and give the situation time--it sounds like the adjustment problems are on his end, and he just needs to grow a bit and it will be fine.
Today I got a list of errors I’d made last week. One was big - that I got written up for last Monday. Forgot to mention that had happened. The error I made resulted in duties not getting paid to Customs. That’s a big no no. But some of the other stuff is so piddly, I just have to shake my head.
The other thing I would mention is that you have a good reputation in your industry. If he overreacts to errors (everyone makes them, don’t beat yourself up, just focus on improving) to the point that you get let go people won’t necessarily blame you. If the worst case happens and you get fired be brave and tell people the truth of what happened. People who have known your work for years will believe you. He’s just another individual guy. His opinion of your work doesn’t have to have any more weight than your opinion of yourself.
I would definitely keep looking where he wrote you up, unless you plan to retire in the next month or two.
The other thing I would mention is that you have a good reputation in your industry. If he overreacts to errors (everyone makes them, don’t beat yourself up, just focus on improving) to the point that you get let go people won’t necessarily blame you. If the worst case happens and you get fired be brave and tell people the truth of what happened. People who have known your work for years will believe you. He’s just another individual guy. His opinion of your work doesn’t have to have any more weight than your opinion of yourself.
Thank you. I needed to hear that. I am going over everything with a fine tooth comb.
Yppej, I have looked online, but nothing right now. Likely due to the holidays.
Tradd has acknowledged that the write-up was serious. A good employer states the need/cause of the write-up and tells the employee in order to have a transparent record of the situation. He did that.
It takes time to establish a record of accuracy with a new employer. There is little margin for error and the consequences are serious in Tradd's industry as she knows. Tradd will work through this and come out fine.
A caution - don't get overtired from outside activities, Tradd. All those figures require your full attention all the time at work as you know. You can do it!
Tradd has acknowledged that the write-up was serious. A good employer states the need/cause of the write-up and tells the employee in order to have a transparent record of the situation. He did that.
It takes time to establish a record of accuracy with a new employer. There is little margin for error and the consequences are serious in Tradd's industry as she knows. Tradd will work through this and come out fine.
A caution - don't get overtired from outside activities, Tradd. All those figures require your full attention all the time at work as you know. You can do it!
Razz, the only outside thing I do is dive. Last dives were 2.5 weeks ago. Cancelled New Year’s dives due to freezing rain (5 hour drive to Ohio). Otherwise, I sit at home and read or surf the net. Trying to get into a better workout habit at home. Next dives aren’t until Jan 9th (weather dependent due to 3 hour drive).
Tradd, I know that you can do this and do it well!! I was not criticizing you but being an objective voice. I am a booster for your efforts.
I understand from your posts that customs is small industry in numbers but with a big role!
You have mentioned that his is a small business that has grown very well. He did his research and hired you (!!!!) with your extensive knowledge and experience knowing that he was trusting his reputation, his business and his livelihood for his family on this decision.
A big no-no as you called it triggered a strong understandable response from him. It is now water under the bridge, can't be undone. You did well to acknowledge it. It is a learning opportunity for both. Build on that! You are part of a team.
What can you do to increase your knowledge and understanding of the business? If you were running your own business in this field, what could you learn to do it better? I frankly know little of the customs industry so can offer no suggestions. Find additional ways of supporting his business by walking in his shoes. He needs your services and was transparent about this. With Covid and working from home, can you find a challenge this winter in the industry that you can explore further? Spend the money to do so if necessary.
You said at the outset that you were looking for new experiences and opportunities for growth in your field. You go girl!!!!
I’ve been doing a lot of industry reading and research in the past week or so. The workload has slowed down a bit with the holidays so there is a bit of time to allow for that. Just yesterday I handled a shipment on something he didn’t do much of, yet I used to do a lot of.
The other thing I would mention is that you have a good reputation in your industry. If he overreacts to errors (everyone makes them, don’t beat yourself up, just focus on improving) to the point that you get let go people won’t necessarily blame you. If the worst case happens and you get fired be brave and tell people the truth of what happened. People who have known your work for years will believe you. He’s just another individual guy. His opinion of your work doesn’t have to have any more weight than your opinion of yourself.
Thank you. I needed to hear that. I am going over everything with a fine tooth comb.
Yppej, I have looked online, but nothing right now. Likely due to the holidays.
Tradd, I doubt it will come to this because you're taking the right steps to set things on a good course, but this article just showed up in my pocket feed. Hopefully you won't need it, but just in case, here it is:
https://getpocket.com/explore/item/if-you-were-fired-don-t-lie-about-it-in-a-job-interview-do-this-instead?utm_source=pocket-newtab
In my state if you have been at a job 13 or more weeks and are doing your best and they fire you for making mistakes then you can still collect unemployment because they were at fault for hiring you without properly assessing your abilities.
Good news!
Signed onto work computer to do some work and found a message from boss. Said my error rate for last week was a VAST improvement and to keep it up.
Teacher Terry
1-3-21, 4:48pm
That’s great Tradd!
Maybe he's learning how to be a manager. Hard if he's only worked for himself for years. Let him know how much you appreciate his praise...they need to hear that, too.
Maybe he's learning how to be a manager. Hard if he's only worked for himself for years. Let him know how much you appreciate his praise...they need to hear that, too.
Good insight.
happystuff
1-10-21, 5:54pm
And the reality that I'm working in a warehouse was bought home on Friday. No advanced notice for preparations - we have mandatory 8 hours OT for the next two weeks. It's taken me about three months to get some Dr appointments scheduled and guess when they fall... as always, i will adjust.
rosarugosa
1-10-21, 5:58pm
And the reality that I'm working in a warehouse was bought home on Friday. No advanced notice for preparations - we have mandatory 8 hours OT for the next two weeks. It's taken me about three months to get some Dr appointments scheduled and guess when they fall... as always, i will adjust.
I'm sorry Happy, that really stinks.
Happy, sorry to hear about the OT. Other than that, how is the job going?
happystuff
1-10-21, 9:58pm
Happy, sorry to hear about the OT. Other than that, how is the job going?
Thanks, all.
It's very physical and I admit to still being sore most of the time, but I'm still doing the job to expectations. The physical means that I am losing weight - which I'm happy about. When I'm on mile 8 at night I just think how lucky I am to be getting the workout without paying for a gym membership. Lol. Still trying to get used to and work out my non-work hours, like getting used to making dinner at noon. Lol. In all seriousness, I'm starting to wonder how long I will be able to do it. Time will tell.
Thanks for asking.
Happy, losing weight is a good thing!
I forgot to ask. Is the OT all one day or spread out over a week?
GeorgeParker
1-10-21, 11:14pm
And the reality that I'm working in a warehouse was bought home on Friday. No advanced notice for preparations - we have mandatory 8 hours OT for the next two weeks. It's taken me about three months to get some Dr appointments scheduled and guess when they fall... as always, i will adjust.
I worked in warehouses for many years and know exactly what you're talking about. So this is the reality of your situation:
Sometimes people get sick and don't come to work. Other things happen that force people to miss a whole day, or part of a day, or not work mandatory overtime. Every company knows this. But every company will act like you should never miss any hours of work no matter what, not even if your whole world is falling apart. They depend on being able to bully and bluff you into always being at work every scheduled hour, and they will abuse their power as much as you let them.
So go to your supervisor or manager and explain to them what your situation is and that you absolutely have to keep these appointments for medical reasons and that you won't be able to reschedule them. Offer to bring in a receipt from the doctor's office. Offer to work part of the appointment day if that's feasible. Above all be very nice and cooperative but firmly state that you really must have time off for these appointments. In most cases your supervisor will let you take the time off if you approach it that way.
Another tactic, for future reference, is to tell your supervisor about any medical appointment as soon as you schedule it, and remind them of it a few days beforehand so you'll be preloaded if the company calls for mandatory overtime on that day.
The primary fact is: Mandatory is only mandatory if the supervisor doesn't give you permission to miss work, and you'll never get permission if you don't ask and explain convincingly why you need to be off those hours.
Good luck and hang in there.
happystuff
1-11-21, 11:15am
Happy, losing weight is a good thing!
I forgot to ask. Is the OT all one day or spread out over a week?
There is a set range of hours that the building will be open each week day and on Saturday. This week, I will be doing the OT all in one shot this coming Saturday - blows my weekend, but... hey. (On a side note, they ARE closing the building for MLK day - so I'll still have a 2-day "weekend". LOL) Next week - again, a 4-day week - I'll be doing 2 extra hours a day starting before regular shift.
happystuff
1-11-21, 11:23am
I worked in warehouses for many years and know exactly what you're talking about. So this is the reality of your situation:
Sometimes people get sick and don't come to work. Other things happen that force people to miss a whole day, or part of a day, or not work mandatory overtime. Every company knows this. But every company will act like you should never miss any hours of work no matter what, not even if your whole world is falling apart. They depend on being able to bully and bluff you into always being at work every scheduled hour, and they will abuse their power as much as you let them.
So go to your supervisor or manager and explain to them what your situation is and that you absolutely have to keep these appointments for medical reasons and that you won't be able to reschedule them. Offer to bring in a receipt from the doctor's office. Offer to work part of the appointment day if that's feasible. Above all be very nice and cooperative but firmly state that you really must have time off for these appointments. In most cases your supervisor will let you take the time off if you approach it that way.
Another tactic, for future reference, is to tell your supervisor about any medical appointment as soon as you schedule it, and remind them of it a few days beforehand so you'll be preloaded if the company calls for mandatory overtime on that day.
The primary fact is: Mandatory is only mandatory if the supervisor doesn't give you permission to miss work, and you'll never get permission if you don't ask and explain convincingly why you need to be off those hours.
Good luck and hang in there.
Thanks for the info, George. I did talk to supervisor(s) and it basically came down to "you have a range of hours to choose from". They even tried to tell me to spend today trying to reschedule the Dr appointments. My response was "You don't reschedule an MRI!" to which they had no response. LOL. Again, I am an adult and I do know who I am dealing with and the consequences of the choices I am/will make. This time around I have worked it out. Next time? Again, time will tell. I think the fact that I am older, not easily intimidated, and willing to accept the consequences of my choices/action without arguing with them... I think they are not sure how to handle/deal with a mature, intelligent individual with rational responses to the points they bring up. I'm finding it a bit funny.
Thanks for your input!
Teacher Terry
1-11-21, 12:03pm
That’s a really physical job for your age and now with OT yikes! I bet you are losing weight.
ApatheticNoMore
1-11-21, 12:36pm
There is a set range of hours that the building will be open each week day and on Saturday. This week, I will be doing the OT all in one shot this coming Saturday - blows my weekend, but... hey. (On a side note, they ARE closing the building for MLK day - so I'll still have a 2-day "weekend". LOL) Next week - again, a 4-day week - I'll be doing 2 extra hours a day starting before regular shift.
It seems to me they are playing a game of overtime where they don't have to pay overtime for it. Because if hourly and subject to overtime laws, it usually kicks in at over 40 hours a WEEK, I believe.
frugal-one
1-11-21, 7:22pm
It seems to me they are playing a game of overtime where they don't have to pay overtime for it. Because if hourly and subject to overtime laws, it usually kicks in at over 40 hours a WEEK, I believe.
It may depend on the state... some after 8 hours in a day??
It may depend on the state... some after 8 hours in a day??
Yes. In some states such as California it’s any time over 8 hours in a day. Other states have different rules or no rules. If the state doesn’t have overtime rules then they default to federal FLSA (fair labor standards act) rules which is overtime for any hours beyond 40 in any 7 day period.
early morning
1-12-21, 12:24pm
FLSA has some loopholes, too. When I was working for a county court system, hourly people in corrections had to go over 80 hours in a two-week period to collect overtime (challenged and upheld as legal). This led to much abuse, IMHO, by working staff many hours one week and then cutting them back the next week. There was a draft system, and some people worked 10 hour shifts to begin with, which led to people being at work for 20 hours at a stretch, and not, in some cases, getting any overtime pay. At least they were not permitted to work two straight shifts on a unit, as that was deemed unsafe. Ya think?? And they wondered why morale was low. . .
ApatheticNoMore
1-12-21, 1:30pm
I remember not getting overtime some days where I worked over 8 hours a day on weeks with paid holidays (say memorial day). Kind of a surprise to me on my paycheck. This was when I got overtime at full time employment, I have worked plenty of salaried jobs where there is no overtime to begin with of course. However, I remember there being some distinction between being categorized as "exempt" or "non-exempt" and whether or not you fall into a category where you are paid overtime or not (hourly or salaried).
frugal-one
1-12-21, 3:56pm
FLSA has some loopholes, too. When I was working for a county court system, hourly people in corrections had to go over 80 hours in a two-week period to collect overtime (challenged and upheld as legal). This led to much abuse, IMHO, by working staff many hours one week and then cutting them back the next week. There was a draft system, and some people worked 10 hour shifts to begin with, which led to people being at work for 20 hours at a stretch, and not, in some cases, getting any overtime pay. At least they were not permitted to work two straight shifts on a unit, as that was deemed unsafe. Ya think?? And they wondered why morale was low. . .
There are a few industries/positions that have totally different overtime provisions (CBRFs... etc). It makes no sense to me either.
frugal-one
1-12-21, 3:57pm
I remember not getting overtime some days where I worked over 8 hours a day on weeks with paid holidays (say memorial day). Kind of a surprise to me on my paycheck. This was when I got overtime at full time employment, I have worked plenty of salaried jobs where there is no overtime to begin with of course. However, I remember there being some distinction between being categorized as "exempt" or "non-exempt" and whether or not you fall into a category where you are paid overtime or not (hourly or salaried).
FYI.. an exempt or salaried position can be paid hourly.
ApatheticNoMore
1-12-21, 4:35pm
FYI.. an exempt or salaried position can be paid hourly.
yea that's how they explained it, I was hourly exempt or something at that job, I usually got overtime (and had to be on call) and then there were times there I worked new years eve at 3 am solving some problem on call, and then "where is my overtime?!?" because nada, because I got a holiday, so not over 40 a week. Scheduling a bunch of overtime on a holiday week just seems suspicious, but maybe in non-exempt cases they have to pay it.
There's a lot to be said for having a union.
There's a lot to be said for having a union.
That's for sure.
happystuff
1-23-21, 10:36pm
Survived the last week of mandatory OT: 4 - 10 hours days.
Survived an outdoor, social distancing funeral this morning and then the same for a family baby shower this afternoon. No hugs allowed for either event.
I'm tired.
I'm just wondering.... what next?
Hugs to all. Be safe and remember to tell loved ones - "I love you".
What you are doing is important in so many ways supporting family and friends and in work setting. Take care of yourself and hugs to you, too.
rosarugosa
1-24-21, 7:56am
Glad you made it through, Happystuff. Hope you have some easier weeks ahead.
Teacher Terry
1-24-21, 9:44am
No wonder you are exhausted. So much to handle.
happystuff
1-24-21, 11:43am
Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the support. Hugs to all.
Had my 6 month review last week. Went better than I expected. Have goals and I will meet them.
I’ve brought on a small new customer or two.
rosarugosa
1-25-21, 10:32am
That's great, Tradd. You must be both relieved and motivated!
Teacher Terry
1-25-21, 10:35am
So glad Tradd!!
That's great, Tradd. You must be both relieved and motivated!
Yep, sure am!
happystuff
1-25-21, 11:34am
Congrats, Tradd!!!
iris lilies
1-26-21, 10:39am
Yep, sure am!
i am so glad to hear this!
SteveinMN
1-26-21, 10:10pm
Nice, Tradd....
You wouldn't believe the shenanigans going on at my old company! Remember Princess? Well, she was made a supervisor a few months ago. Hah!
Then I just found out today that the entire company was bought out by another freight forwarder. The office I used to work in is such a mess that the general consensus is no one in that branch will survive the merger. The buying company has a large Chicago office anyway.
The guy who works in the Detroit office is a good friend of mine now and he got all my old workload. He told me the idiot manager (who left the company sometime in the fall) drove away a number of customers. The one customer that was my baby from day one at the company keeps telling the Detroit guy that they miss me something awful.
I had a good laugh this morning.
iris lilies
1-28-21, 4:52pm
You wouldn't believe the shenanigans going on at my old company! Remember Princess? Well, she was made a supervisor a few months ago. Hah!
Then I just found out today that the entire company was bought out by another freight forwarder. The office I used to work in is such a mess that the general consensus is no one in that branch will survive the merger. The buying company has a large Chicago office anyway.
The guy who works in the Detroit office is a good friend of mine now and he got all my old workload. He told me the idiot manager (who left the company sometime in the fall) drove away a number of customers. The one customer that was my baby from day one at the company keeps telling the Detroit guy that they miss me something awful.
I had a good laugh this morning.
how fortuitous that you got out before all this upset!
I've had a couple of recruiters contact me about broker positions this week. I'm at least talking to them. Boss keeps making changes to his homegrown system and the updates keep having to be walked back because the changes don't work with other things. Or I can't work in the customs software (someone else developed that) because he's fiddling with something. I probably lost at least two hours of work time this week due to downtime due to these changes.
Boss has been increasingly pissy and I'm tired of it. I do NOT want to work in an office again and I'd hate to wear a mask at work (awful with my hot flashes), but gotta pay for diving!
Tradd are you vaccinated? If so maybe an employer would not require a mask at least when you are in your own cubicle?
Tradd are you vaccinated? If so maybe an employer would not require a mask at least when you are in your own cubicle?
No, I'm only early 50s. No underlying conditions aside from being overweight. Not eligible here yet. I'm group 1C. And many offices don't have cubicles, only open floor plans. Although what covid has done to that, I'm not sure.
ApatheticNoMore
3-4-21, 8:35pm
Even when they have cubicals, some people have cubicals, I'm squished in an office with others, but the few days I've gone to the office during covid it's just been me in there, they aren't allowing many in at once.
Just got a message from boss - We use MS Teams to message (text, really) and when you're not active you get the messages as emails. I have work email on my phone. Anyway, he's been approving the customs clearances and transmitting about all of them the Customs himself since late in the fall. The message I just got says that the requirement that he approve all clearances has been removed. I’ll also be billing files and sending invoices out to the customers. I think this is due to two things - 1. He's going to be gone on vacation for the next two weeks and working reduced hours. 2. He's going to let me sink or swim. Said the goals for error reduction are no longer relevant. However, I’ll still get dinged for big errors or that go outside the company. That was interesting.
Just got a message from boss - We use MS Teams to message (text, really) and when you're not active you get the messages as emails. I have work email on my phone. Anyway, he's been approving the customs clearances and transmitting about all of them the Customs himself since late in the fall. The message I just got says that the requirement that he approve all clearances has been removed. I’ll also be billing files and sending invoices out to the customers. I think this is due to two things - 1. He's going to be gone on vacation for the next two weeks and working reduced hours. 2. He's going to let me sink or swim. Said the goals for error reduction are no longer relevant. However, I’ll still get dinged for big errors or that go outside the company. That was interesting.
Tradd, it seems to me that you are feeling vulnerable, understandably. Your boss is actually saying that you are ready to stand on your own two feet, a compliment and a significant one.
Having experienced similar feelings of vulnerability over the years, the feeling within your post seems like a nudge for you to work on your self-confidence. May I suggest that each morning, you start your day with gratitude for a fresh beautiful day, reminding yourself of all the accomplishments throughout your life and the learning going on right now. You are smart, capable, loving, helpful, significant, and so many more qualities. Don't underestimate the importance of making this a daily practice. Because you have stated your faith, I will add that God created you and so you are "fearfully and wonderfully made" with talents and abilities that are needed and valued. One of the challenges of living solo, as I know, is self-validation. It is important to do this. Hugs.
Tradd, it seems to me that you are feeling vulnerable, understandably. Your boss is actually saying that you are ready to stand on your own two feet, a compliment and a significant one.
That's how I took this. Tradd's description of her boss and the company makes it pretty clear this is his baby and has been for some time, and he has had to accommodate a lot to let someone else in on it, yet business is too good for him to handle it alone. It's been a growth experience for him, too. So letting Tradd solo is a good sign.
I had soloed at the beginning but made too many mistakes so that stopped.
Boss apparently seems to feel that situation is correcting/has corrected itself.
Sounds like "next step" in your work environment - a positive one, I'm thinking! Good luck and, as razz said, you CAN do this!
Like the others I think this means that boss now trusts you. From what you’ve described he sounds like too much of a control freak to allow you to ‘sink or swim’. And he probably should be because ultimately it’s his company that you are representing.
Years ago I got dinged for two minor violations of my underwriting authority by an internal audit. That resulted in me losing my authority for the better part of a year, meaning that all my accounts had to go to boss for approval before releasing terms. I got through it and regained my authority and life went on. It sounds like you have gotten through your issues as well. Congratulations!
Boss is being a complete and total a-hole today. I now find out I'm supposed to watch a whole bunch of air freight shipments over the weekend. He waits until late on Friday afternoon to tell me this. I was very direct with him. I told him he gave me TWO DAYS notice he was going to be gone for two weeks and working greatly reduced hours. I would have been up in WI this weekend if I hadn't switched it to last weekend. I don't mind following air freight over the weekend - IF I HAVE NOTICE. I got NO notice.
Another problem he is giving me NO information on. There was a combined shipment from one overseas shipper going to two different companies here in the US. There has been much back and forth between boss and the forwarder (who is our customer) about whether it would clear under the two different companies names or if it would be cleared under one company that we already clear for. We have a shared email box with emails for all shipments. Boss took the emails out of that shared folder and moved them into a folder of his I don't have access to (we have access to each other's in boxes to move emails back and forth as a lot of stuff only goes to him). He constantly tells me to do my homework and gather information before going outside the company so we don't look like fools. He is deliberately without holding information from me. He will not share the emails he has. I asked him if he was deliberately trying to make me look like a fool? His response? "You've got audacity. I'll give you that much." I sent an email to the forwarder asking if they'd come to a resolution as I saw a lot of emails exchanged, but no final decision. No response yet.
He told me yesterday he was tired of babysitting a licensed customs broker. Then this happened today about doing all my clearances, sending out billing, etc.
jp, you would think he'd be too much of a control freak to not let me "sink or swim," but given what's gone on today, I doubt it.
jp, you would think he'd be too much of a control freak to not let me "sink or swim," but given what's gone on today, I doubt it.
tbh with that additional information it almost looks like he's setting you up to fail and force either termination or your resignation. Hate to say it, but he is being an a-hole.
He may be pushing you so you'll quit and he doesn't have to pay more in unemployment premiums for getting rid of you. Don't leave until you get something else.
He may be pushing you so you'll quit and he doesn't have to pay more in unemployment premiums for getting rid of you. Don't leave until you get something else.
I’m not planning on leaving until I get something else.
Steve, boss is definitely being a douche bag.
Before you think what his motives might be, you might want to walk in his shoes at this time. You don't know what is happening in his life. When you have challenging situations like this, focus on what you can do, know that you are capable and competent and stick with that.
Before you think what his motives might be, you might want to walk in his shoes at this time. You don't know what is happening in his life. When you have challenging situations like this, focus on what you can do, know that you are capable and competent and stick with that.
Regardless of what is going on with his life, there is zero excuse for no notice on the vacation and me having to watch stuff this weekend. He could have told me Thursday I was going to have to watch the air freight over the weekend, but he chose not to.
Before you think what his motives might be, you might want to walk in his shoes at this time. You don't know what is happening in his life. When you have challenging situations like this, focus on what you can do, know that you are capable and competent and stick with that.
Razz, I love you, and your kind, loving spirit, and I think this is really bad advice--I think Tradd's boss is showing who he is, and she should believe him. If you keep making excuses for him, you may miss what is really going on here, Tradd, and I think your instincts are correct, and he well might be setting you up.
Yuck. I would get on those interviews, because I doubt the mask thing will last forever, and vaccinations will change these office protocols. (That's my prediction, anyway.)
iris lilies
3-7-21, 10:00am
Razz, I love you, and your kind, loving spirit, and I think this is really bad advice--I think Tradd's boss is showing who he is, and she should believe him. If you keep making excuses for him, you may miss what is really going on here, Tradd, and I think your instincts are correct, and he well might be setting you up.
Yuck. I would get on those interviews, because I doubt the mask thing will last forever, and vaccinations will change these office protocols. (That's my prediction, anyway.)
yes, this. Good advice.
The boss may blow hot and cold, he could be realistic and exacting OR be unrealistic, I don’t really know, I can’t tell from Tradd’s reports.
But to make an assignment on a Friday afternoon for the weekend is not realistic.
If the boss says “I have emergency surgery on Friday and I will be out of commission for three days” that would be a different deal but that’s not what he said.
happystuff
3-7-21, 11:04am
So sorry you are dealing with this kind of stuff, Tradd. I'm thinking your knowledge, skills and experience will get you through to a better work environment. Good luck!
Teacher Terry
3-7-21, 12:00pm
I totally agree with Tybee. So sorry Tradd.
Yeah, boss seems to be playing around with you for some reason (personally I would take the audacity comment as a supreme compliment--problem is some bosses can't deal with strong personalities, particularly women's). Stick to the job search and tell yourself "this too shall pass."
Is boss reading this forum?
Nope. He’d have no clue it exists.
I got home from church and shopping about 1pm to a message from boss, "Why didn't you do X,Y,Z?" I told him that I wasn't going to skip church and put off grocery shopping because I had shipments to check on. He said he had ended up doing the rest of what was needed with the air freight. He was definitely snarky. So I only had to work about 10 minutes today. He would ordinarily work a few hours on Sat/Sun.
One of the airlines works 24/7 and I had gotten an email response from them on charges on a shipment that had just arrived yesterday late afternoon. I got the handling charges from them about 2am. I woke up at 7 and paid the charges online. Sent the information to the trucker who will be picking it up, asking if they could get it today as the idiot airline is only giving 24 hours after arrival to pick up, instead of the old standard 48 hours. Trucker hasn't gotten back to me, so there will probably be storage for pickup tomorrow. Nothing I can do about it since a few airlines have reduced free time so they can make more money off storage charges.
One company I had applied to via LinkedIn sent me a work history document to fill out since I only had current job and the previous one (14 years total) on my resume. I'll do that this afternoon.
I just opened up the work history form I was sent and as part of their hiring process is the applicant arranging for phone calls with supervisors at previous jobs with the prospective employer. This is non-negotiable. Are you kidding me? There is no way I'm going to do a call with the toxic manager and the somewhat better supervisor from the previous job. You have to list each full time job you've ever held and if you had job title changes at the same company, you have to do a separate entry for each job title change. They want supervisor's name for each job you've held. I don't remember supervisor/manager names past the last company (there from 2006 though 2020).
I am seriously considering NOT completing this form.
Did your prior company have a reference policy such as only HR can provide references and all they can do is verify dates of employment and job titles? If so you can reference that policy and say a call is not possible.
Did your prior company have a reference policy such as only HR can provide references and all they can do is verify dates of employment and job titles? If so you can reference that policy and say a call is not possible.
Yes. However, former supervisor and manager no longer work for prior company. I looked on their LinkedIn profiles and last position listed is prior company. You'd have to contact them through LinkedIn. I don't have numbers or emails for them.
Then I would write Left the Company - Unknown. It is not your job to track people down like the FBI. They can call HR to confirm you worked there.
When I left the Big Company, most of my former supervisors were no longer there due to the constant layoffs and reorgs. I put on the job application "left the company" and provided the HR number to confirm employment. If they wanted to, they could always ask HR if the former supervisors were still around and get the same answer.
Crossed that one off the list.
Found the website for the company both recruiters contacted me about. Found the actual job description. Sent my resume directly to them. The only contact listed was the HR head honcho. She said she rarely gets emails directly about positions, but she’s the only listed contact. Asked me for salary and availability for interviews and how soon I’d be able to start. Told her I’d have to give two weeks, but who knows, boss might want me gone immediately. Many companies do that these days.
chrisgermany
3-8-21, 9:40am
I am knocking on wood and pressing thumbs for you.
Thank you all for the good wishes and support.
I have a video interview at noon with the company I contacted directly last night.
I have a video interview at noon with the company I contacted directly last night.:cool::cool: Sending out mountains of good vibes to you and for you!
Good luck with the interview and I hope it all works out well for you!!!
happystuff
3-8-21, 11:41am
Wow! Just caught up - good luck, Tradd!!!!
An update about the shipment boss was hiding the emails from me on. He forwards me an email with the customer in copy yesterday indicating that a resolution on who to clear shipment under had happened last Wednesday. I was copied on the email, but as boss said, there was no evidence of it “hitting your inbox.” No apology from him separately with regards to being such a jerk on Friday.
Thanks. A little fast!
Go, Tradd--how cool!!
Due to a scheduling conflict on their end, interview is either later today or tomorrow.
Well, then I still have time to wish you good luck, Tradd. Go get 'em.
Teacher Terry
3-8-21, 2:27pm
Tradd, I hope you find a great new job! Good luck!
Turned out interview WAS at noon. LOL.
Went quite well. I was interviewed by a bunch of executives. 40 minutes. Company is growing. This position is open because the employee wanted a shorter commute. I'm 20 minutes away.
It's a non-exempt position, so you get OT. They just switched to a new system, so there's a learning curve for everyone. Putting in extra hours right nowThey're in the office, but desks are 6ft apart and plexiglass dividers are available for those who want them. You don't have to wear a mask when at your desk (unless training right next to someone), but you do when up and about. They are paperless. They do have laptops available for remote work and would provide additional displays.
Loved my outgoing personality and my enthusiasm for the job. I was asked if I had supervisory experience or wanted to manage people and I said no. I said I liked not being tied to a phone and able to go out on the weekends and dive. The president said he appreciated I was honest. They asked what I dive, and the Great Lakes wrecks, cave, and recent ice diving got "Ooohs and aaahs." No employee contribution for health insurance. Two weeks vacation and you have to accrue it.
They asked why I was looking and I told them it was primarily system issues. Said the one I'm working on is primitive and difficult to deal with.
So we shall see.
Sounds very promising. Good luck!
the fact that he wouldn't share the email history with you is the sign you need to start looking. Sounds like he's looking for a way for you to fail, as prior posters have said. If it were otherwise, why wouldn't he give you the information you need to do your job - especially with such short notice?
the fact that he wouldn't share the email history with you is the sign you need to start looking. Sounds like he's looking for a way for you to fail, as prior posters have said. If it were otherwise, why wouldn't he give you the information you need to do your job - especially with such short notice?
Exactly.
Teacher Terry
3-8-21, 9:48pm
Sounds good Tradd.
What a whirlwind of updates since I last checked this thread! Keeping my fingers crossed that it works out with the new potential job.
When I was interviewing with my then future boss's boss for my current job one of the topics that came up at the end during the chit chat part of the conversation was hiking. He had asked if I had plans for the weekend and I mentioned a specific semi-popular hike in the bay area and that I was really looking forward to it because the wildflowers everywhere that spring (2019) were just insanely beautiful. A bit more chatting about hiking and it turned out that he had hiked the Camino de Santiago, which my sister was training to do the next year (2020, but didn't because covid). I doubt that that connection was what got me the job but it never hurts to be able to leave the interviewer feeling like you have something in common or at least that you're an interesting person. (I suppose that wouldn't be the case if you were interviewing for a job where they want total 110% commitment above all else and a willingness to work 100 hours/week or whatever so my advice doesn't apply to anyone hoping to get a job at Amazon...)
I make sure to mention my diving. My diving is not the run of the mill tropical diving. People will remember me! :)
happystuff
3-9-21, 11:04am
Sounds like the interview went well! Continued good luck!!
I make sure to mention my diving. My diving is not the run of the mill tropical diving. People will remember me! :)
Good! And not just your unique diving ‘niche’ but the history of how you got into it is cool.
Good! And not just your unique diving ‘niche’ but the history of how you got into it is cool.
Well, that’s a longer story for later. :D
I sent a thank you email to the company president and the other three who interviewed me. He said I was a great candidate and they enjoyed the interview. They have several others to interview and will keep me updated.
Boss is being a turd this week. Nit picking about everything. Making constant changes on some procedures. He’s on vacation and working perhaps the morning or a bit into the afternoon. He’s been not working the past two afternoons. I had a ton of air freight and truck shipments from Canada arriving over the weekend to deal with today. Got them all done and ready to go. Got the documents for about 20-25 shipments for one big customer. High volume, but simple. The process has always been to assign file numbers and then have them done by Monday morning for the boss’ daughter in law to trace (she’s still working for boss -search for a different job seems to not be successful at this time). I have work email on my phone and saw an email had come through. I dislike the little number (of emails) showing on the app icon so I go in and open them. All my emails were gone. Went to work computer and saw boss and moved them all to his inbox. Sent him an email asking why he had moved them when I was going to have them done by Monday morning. Who knows if I’ll get a response from him or not.
I just got let go. In a way, it’s a relief to not have that hanging over my head anymore.
Boss said the additional business that was supposed to come on from the business development person never happened so no need for me.
iris lilies
3-13-21, 10:10am
Oh! Yikes. I am sorry to hear this.
I just got let go. In a way, it’s a relief to not have that hanging over my head anymore.
I'm sorry Tradd. I wonder if he knew it would come to this at some point, and his nastiness and nitpickiness was his way of dealing with it, ie he would feel less guilty about letting you go if you were somehow a "problem". But of course you know you weren't a problem, so make sure not to internalize what's he's said. You are capable and qualified and its very smart of you to have already started to look for another position.
catherine
3-13-21, 10:15am
So sorry, Tradd, but I'm sure there's something better for you out there than this job was!!
Teacher Terry
3-13-21, 10:56am
I am so very sorry. Something better will come along.
Boss said the additional business that was supposed to come on from the business development person never happened so no need for me.
"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rONWRavCc8"
Boss acted strangely for a long time. I'm sorry it ended this way, Tradd, but I think good things will come. Don't you have a couple of irons in the fire right now?
Yes, talked to recruiter who got me Monday’s interview. Maybe hear something Monday.
Hang in there. I am in my third position with my company in four years and finally happy. My replacement in the first only lasted a month and I just found out yesterday my replacement in the second just quit after 5 months. I bet if anyone ever steps into the job you just had they will not be as patient as you were. You gave it your best shot and that it didn't work out is no reflection on you.
Remember that you are experienced and capable. You can add the experience with a solo practice to help guide you to the right job situation going ahead.
Think of what you can add to your resume, such as experience working remotely. Someday it may guide you to another work from home opportunity.
Thanks for the support and good wishes. Glad I still have something if a stash of food and toiletries to use up. Will help the budget.
Something much better is coming your way, and yes, you did learn new skills etc and that will be to your benefit!
Shouldn't he have fired the business development person as well? Or did he?
At any rate, there will be extra unemployment, and I suspect the business climate will surge when this is all behind us. And you're ahead of the game. Good luck!
Shouldn't he have fired the business development person as well? Or did he?
At any rate, there will be extra unemployment, and I suspect the business climate will surge when this is all behind us. And you're ahead of the game. Good luck!
Business development person just disappeared. I just tried to apply for unemployment, but it's pulling in stuff from the previous job and applying what I made in the last week to THAT job. Can't figure out how to get around it. Will have to try and call.
happystuff
3-13-21, 5:00pm
So sorry, Tradd. With your knowledge and skills, I have no doubts you will be quickly picked up into a better situation.
I'm taking today and tomorrow off, then I'll start the job search on Monday and try to get through to unemployment. Their website was acting funky with my stuff, so I have to attempt to get through.
Tried again and was able to get unemployment claim filed.
happystuff
3-14-21, 10:58am
Good! Glad you got the UE claim filed.
I'm sorry Tradd. I wonder if he knew it would come to this at some point, and his nastiness and nitpickiness was his way of dealing with it, ie he would feel less guilty about letting you go if you were somehow a "problem". But of course you know you weren't a problem, so make sure not to internalize what's he's said. You are capable and qualified and its very smart of you to have already started to look for another position.
I am sorry this happened, Tradd. I haven't posted much but have followed your saga. I can related as something similar happened to me years ago. Worked at a nonprofit for a year and a half, things were fine until the last 6 months when member support dropped significantly during an economic downturn. Boss became very much like yours and in the end I was let go in the form of being forced to resign for various vague "problems". It was baffling at first was I was never put through the progressive discipline procedure per policy and I got a future "raise" (which would go into to force once the organization's numbers improved). Turned out organization financials were much more dire. I made a point not to internalize my boss' words in that exit interview. And I listed leaving the company as being let go due to financial reasons even though the boss forced my resignation, but told me they would not challenge any UE claim.
I am sorry this happened, Tradd. I haven't posted much but have followed your saga. I can related as something similar happened to me years ago. Worked at a nonprofit for a year and a half, things were fine until the last 6 months when member support dropped significantly during an economic downturn. Boss became very much like yours and in the end I was let go in the form of being forced to resign for various vague "problems". It was baffling at first was I was never put through the progressive discipline procedure per policy and I got a future "raise" (which would go into to force once the organization's numbers improved). Turned out organization financials were much more dire. I made a point not to internalize my boss' words in that exit interview. And I listed leaving the company as being let go due to financial reasons even though the boss forced my resignation, but told me they would not challenge any UE claim.
Boss mentioned my errors but also the anticipated business not materializing and existing business not enough to support my salary. Since both were mentioned, I went with number two. The email from boss said I "may" be able to get unemployment.
As a good friend of mine said, it's clear the two systems (the excel workbook the boss used to do everything but transmit to customs as well as the customs software) were an issue since I didn't have the error issue at the previous job. Also, boss clearly had unrealistic expectations about errors. We're human. We make mistakes. Him, on the other hand...LOL Grrr...
Sent resume off to three recruiters who had contacted me about jobs that required management experience. Indicated I didn't have management experience, but I was interested in non-management experience positions.
Former boss told me to take laptop and monitors to the UPS Store and have them call him. They will pack and send back to him on his dime. Will do that tomorrow as we're supposed to get snow, sleet, freezing rain today.
I had interviewed with one company right before I accepted the position I was just let go from. He told me to contact him if this job didn't work out. So I did! And sent an updated resume.
The guy who was my counterpart in the Detroit office of company where I worked so long (and the guy who got my workload!) knows a bunch of people he's going to talk to about me and see if they have any open positions. Many of these peoples companies made Chicago their companies' big Midwestern offices.
Boss mentioned my errors but also the anticipated business not materializing and existing business not enough to support my salary. Since both were mentioned, I went with number two. The email from boss said I "may" be able to get unemployment.
In the weeks following my termination, I learned that there were other "mysterious" departures. CFO resigned, the HR manager was let go citing, like me, "performance issues" after 10 years on the job (why that was announced, I'll never know). Other key employees quit leaving the organization literally without successors as the President was ready to retire. So, based on that, I figured this was some way of disguising a layoff/RIF in order not to induce panic because there were rumors circulating about layoffs shortly (as in a couple of weeks) before my departure and organization President was going out of his way to debunk them. Also the fact they would not challenge UE, I went with "laid off" on my job applications.
In the weeks following my termination, I learned that there were other "mysterious" departures. CFO resigned, the HR manager was let go citing, like me, "performance issues" after 10 years on the job (why that was announced, I'll never know). Other key employees quit leaving the organization literally without successors as the President was ready to retire. So, based on that, I figured this was some way of disguising a layoff/RIF in order not to induce panic because there were rumors circulating about layoffs shortly (as in a couple of weeks) before my departure and organization President was going out of his way to debunk them. Also the fact they would not challenge UE, I went with "laid off" on my job applications.
Interesting...
Interesting...
Given the nonprofit was an HR organization that provided human resources and management support to their member companies made their actions with their own employees seem even more interesting.
Have an interview with a recruiter tomorrow.
Have an interview with a recruiter tomorrow.
Keeping my fingers crossed that they have some opportunities that are a good fit for you.
Keeping my fingers crossed that they have some opportunities that are a good fit for you.
Thanks! Also still waiting to hear about the job I interviewed for last week. I was told I should hear more this week.
happystuff
3-16-21, 11:05am
Sounds like you have put a lot of contacts/resumes out there. Good work! And good luck!
Computer stuff dropped off at the UPS Store. Another resume sent out.
I've had to block a few folks on FB. I've been called a "leech" since I'm applying for unemployment again. This from people who were fortunate to not have any employment issues during covid and kept working, all through last spring's lockdown. These folks were on all ends of the political spectrum. Arguments fell on deaf ears - the last time I got unemployment was the early 90s fell on deaf ears and how is it my fault a worldwide pandemic caused the first layoff? Or what about people who own restaurants and weren't allowed to reopen?
They should be helping you network Tradd, if they really think you should be working. They are pathetic.
They should be helping you network Tradd, if they really think you should be working. They are pathetic.
Yes, they are pathetic. They would be useless to me for networking as none of them have any connections or experience in my industry.
In person interview tomorrow. Salary range is $75K-$85K. I've been making $63K!
Teacher Terry
3-16-21, 4:21pm
That’s great news Tradd!! Unemployment is available for precisely your situation. Life happens and it can be out of our control. Those people on Facebook are morons.
rosarugosa
3-16-21, 6:10pm
Fingers crossed for you Tradd, and with friends like that, who needs enemies?
Fingers crossed for you Tradd, and with friends like that, who needs enemies?
I know!
A recruiter based outside of IL just asked me my salary history. She did not believe me when I told her that such questions are illegal in IL. I had to provide proof. She was NOT happy. LOL.
https://www2.illinois.gov/idol/News/Documents/DOL%20Wage%20History%20Release.pdf
Recruiter was upset when I chose not to pursue a position that was $10K less than I’ve been making.
iris lilies
3-17-21, 10:25am
Recruiter was upset when I chose not to pursue a position that was $10K less than I’ve been making.
This is the employer’s opportunity to raise their salary. After they hunt around for candidates for a while, they might do that.
Interview today at 11am Central time. Good thoughts!
catherine
3-17-21, 10:45am
Interview today at 11am Central time. Good thoughts!
You got em! Go get em!
early morning
3-17-21, 10:54am
Best of luck, Tradd! All good vibes headed your way! :)
happystuff
3-17-21, 11:06am
Continued good luck, Tradd!!!
Think it went pretty well!
They talked to recruiter a few minutes ago. I should be getting an offer letter this afternoon. $75K! They cover health insurance 100%. Yay!
iris lilies
3-17-21, 2:40pm
Yay yay yay!
They talked to recruiter a few minutes ago. I should be getting an offer letter this afternoon. $75K! They cover health insurance 100%. Yay!
FANTASTIC!:cool:
Good grief--between you and TeacherTerry, it's really the lightning round!
Drinks are on me! :D
iris lilies
3-17-21, 4:20pm
Good grief--between you and TeacherTerry, it's really the lightning round!
Drinks are on me! :D
I’ll have a double. It’s not 4 o’clock here yet but somewhere it is.
I’ll have a double. It’s not 4 o’clock here yet but somewhere it is.
Drinking rules are flexible during pandemics. :~)
Teacher Terry
3-17-21, 4:35pm
Tradd, I have been packing my husband’s stuff and took a break for lunch. You already have a job!! Unbelievable in a great way. So happy for you:))
Good grief--between you and TeacherTerry, it's really the lightning round!
Drinks are on me! :D
:laff:
Tradd, I have been packing my husband’s stuff and took a break for lunch. You already have a job!! Unbelievable in a great way. So happy for you:))
Thank you. Yes, I am STUNNED. Let me tell you! The recruiter is fabulous and really sold me to the company -accurately.
I’ll have a double. It’s not 4 o’clock here yet but somewhere it is.
I've had two 20oz bottles of Coke today. That counts as a double. :D
Congratulations, Tradd! It's great to hear some good news, and you could really use some. I'm glad for you!
Adding to the congratulations Tradd- way to go!
That's great, Tradd! In addition to the pay bump, I hope it's a big step forward for your career. Good luck!
frugal-one
3-17-21, 6:02pm
Happy days ahead!!!!
rosarugosa
3-17-21, 6:41pm
I'm so happy for you! Like Kay, I definitely was ready for some good news!
Still waiting on offer letter. Recruiter said I was going to have it this afternoon, but nothing yet. Texted her to make sure everything is okay.
Recruiter said everything is OK. I’ll have email tomorrow.
Congratulations! This is about the shortest unemployment I’ve ever heard of!
Congratulations! This is about the shortest unemployment I’ve ever heard of!
Thanks! I know! Wow. Still stunned.
chrisgermany
3-18-21, 6:37am
Congrats! I am so happy for you.
happystuff
3-18-21, 10:17am
Wow! Just caught up. Wonderful news, Tradd!!! Congrats!!
Just got offer letter. Start Monday. Enjoying being a veg for a few days.
:cool::cool:
Just got offer letter. Start Monday. Enjoying being a veg for a few days.
CONGRATULATIONS! Enjoy a few days to call your own while you take a big deep breath of relief!
frugal-one
3-18-21, 2:13pm
Wonderful news!
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