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Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn!

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“Oops you made a mistake, that’s all … and making mistakes is never fun” was a jingle from a decades-old cartoon series. Truer words were never sung. Blunder … error … gaffe … mis-step … oversight … blooper … many terms share that singular, sinking feeling when you realize you messed up in a big way. We help listeners own up and make amends when things go awry at the office. Jack shares the story of an impromptu acoustic performance that saved a concert waylaid by technical difficulties.

Segments in this episode:

• Not Ticking all the Boxes in Vancouver – “We shipped a large order to an overseas customer and I just realized I sent the wrong stuff!”
• They’re all Johns in Indiana - “OMG … I told the wrong John Smith he’d been promoted and given a raise.”
• The Gist: “How to Apologize for a Mistake Professionally” by Genevieve Northup, MBA, SHRM-CP, HCI-SPTD as posted on Indeed.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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Leading a high-profile initiative can be daunting … even more so when you’re coordinating team members scattered around the globe. We help listeners tasked with getting the job done while navigating different languages, cultures and work styles. In honor of July 4th, the Cubicle Crew reminisces about the magic of fireworks.

Segments in this episode:

• We’re Not in Kansas Anymore - “Help! I’m about to lead a global initiative and this will be my first time traveling outside the U.S.”
• Here, There and Everywhere in New York- “I have real concerns about coordinating a virtual team … these people are based in 17 different countries!”
• This Week in Pyrotechnics: A bottle rocket is a small firework made of a cylindrical case filled with combustible material, attached to a guiding stick. The stick can be placed in a bottle or other vessel to help control the rocket's launch direction. Bottle rockets can be dangerous and are considered unguided missiles that can travel at speeds of almost 200 miles per hour. These characteristics appeal to Jack and Tim; Chris … not so much.
• The Gist: “Top 10 Tips For Managing Multicultural Teams” by Mursal Hedayat (accessed via Chatterbox.com and originally published on Forbes.com)

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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As the saying goes, “Life unfolds at the office.” Feeling sad or down is a normal reaction to disappointing or difficult times. But when a low mood stretches from days to weeks it can be difficult to sleep, think or work. If you feel depressed, take the first step by talking to a mental health professional, your doctor, a friend or loved one. This week we hear from a listener reluctant to disclosure his struggles even as they impact his performance. Another listener expresses concern for a colleague whose cheerful disposition might be a façade.

Segments in this episode

• Down But Not Out In Madison - "I’m depressed and finding it hard to work, should I tell someone at my office or just wait for it to pass?”
• Faking Joy In Seattle - "My co-worker is pretending to be happy but I can tell it’s an act … what should I do?”
• The Gist: “Depression Attacks: 8 Steps To Cope With Sudden Depression And Anxiety” medically reviewed by Julie Dodson, MA as posted on BetterHelp.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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A new title, more responsibility, better pay and perhaps a little prestige … what could be bad about getting promoted? This week we help listeners grappling with the complexities and consequences of “moving on up” the corporate ladder. Chris probes Tim about his quasi-agrarian roots.

Segments in this episode:

• Down About Moving Up In Bloomfield - “I got promoted and now my work friends are giving me a hard time”
• Up For Grabs In Chattanooga – “I’m one of four vying for two promotions, how should I rate my competition during our 360 review process?”
• The Gist: “Explaining Game Theory” – the Cubicle Crew introduces this branch of behavioral economics. Is it possible to predict the way two or more seemingly-competing parties will act in a given situation? Would you make the choice that most benefits you, or cooperate to maximize outcomes for all?

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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Honesty is the best policy, but … the early bird gets the worm. Which idiom can save a listener from being an idiot? Next, an honest mistake does real harm … how to handle damage control when you unwittingly spill the tea about a job change. Is it just me, or has tipping gotten more complicated? Plus, a wild and wonderful tale from Wildwood.

Segments in this episode:

• A Wasted Opportunity in Omaha - “If the boss is drunk, thinks you’re someone else, and offers you a high profile project, do you accept?”
• Spilling the Beans in Bakerfield - “I congratulated a client on his new job in front of his bosses who didn’t know he was leaving”
• The Gist: “How to Handle Social Gaffes at Work” from Monster.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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This week we help listeners master the mid-day meal: one wants in on the action, while another wrestles with the cost of lavish lunching. Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive. Reflections on different types of lies.

Segments in this episode:

• Not Clicking with the Clique in Chicago - “How do I crack the boy’s club at lunch?”
• Food for Thought in New York City - “Eating out with my boss is costing me a fortune!”
• The Gist: “Do You Believe In White Lies?” by Barbara Field (from VeryWellMind.com)

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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What to do when work travel gets awkward? How to deflect when another couple wants to join your vacation. How to navigate a work trip when teammates become roommates. Chris reflects on his time as an instructor at a school for new consultants and the classical motif puer mingens makes a surprise appearance.

Segments in this episode

• Two’s Company, Four’s a Crowd in Cleveland - "I am taking my girlfriend to Europe and my work pal wants to make it a double date”
• Budding Bedroom Blues in Las Vegas - "Good news: I get to go to Las Vegas for work. Bad news: I have to bunk with a co-worker.”
• The Gist: “How to Travel with Someone Whom You Don’t Like” by Jessica Jazz (What a cool name!) as posted on Medium.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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Religion … money … politics … in the modern workplace almost no subject is off limits. This week we help a listener in Texas do the two-step when his new teammates talk politics. The Gaylord hotel, the Curse of Knowledge and the toppling trees of the biosphere are a few more ingredients in this week’s stew.

Segments in this episode:

• Damned if You Do, Damning if You Don’t in Lubbock - “My new coworkers talk politics all day … do I dare reveal myself as being on the other side of the aisle?”
• Chris shares his “A-E-I-O-U” framework for enabling productive engagement and fostering genuine dialogue
• The Gist: “How to Change Someone’s Mind” by Katy Scott as posted on INSEAD.edu. This though-provoking piece references “1,001 and One Nights” and Scheherazade’s psychological judo.

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Send your emails to info@cubicleconfidential.com

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This week we help listeners shake up the status quo. What to do when your comp doesn’t match your contribution to the business? Next, how to start a job change when you think you’ve found some greener grass. In honor of Mother’s Day: Chris, Tim and Jack share memories of traditions both old and new. Science Corner: Butler’s Law of Conservation of Self-esteem.

Segments in this episode:

• Hacked or Hacked Off in New Jersey - “My boss is trying to commandeer my commission”
• Word of the day: An adjective … 11-letters … meaning “next to last” (but in the common vernacular often used incorrectly as a synonym for “last”)
• Angling for a Dream Job in Memphis - “How do I land a position with one of our vendors?”

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com.

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Given the transient and mobile nature of the modern workforce, is poaching an ethical dilemma or a smart sourcing strategy? We help a restaurant owner contemplate countermeasures when an upscale rival raids his roster. Next, Chris and Tim help a consultant calm the waters when he is accused of aiding and abetting a defection. Also, a spirited point-counterpoint on the concept of “brunch” and a few confessions about runny eggs.

Segments in this episode:

• Dine and Dash in Austin - “The restaurant up the road is swiping my servers”
• Scrambled not Poached in Spartanburg - “My client thinks I pilfered his people”
• The Gist: “The Ethics & Etiquette of Employee Poaching ” by Cherone Duggan (Workable.com)

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com.

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Tim’s much-maligned reference shelf includes the American Heritage dictionary which defines a crush as: “a usually temporary infatuation.” This week we help listeners work through the twists and turns of office obsessions. Chris waxes poetic about the rotary phone and the dating scene at Illinois Bell. Plus: back by popular demand – the word of the day!

Segments in this episode

• 2Good 2Be 4Gotten in Tulsa- "My boss is hot. Can I? Should I? How do I?”
• Word of the day: A noun … 10-letters … defined as “the tendency to perceive a specific, often meaningful image in a random or ambiguous pattern” … can you guess the word?
• Daddy Issues in Des Moines - "We are dealing with a perilous paternal paradox”

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn!

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Sometimes it’s hard to stand out from the crowd, sometimes it’s hard to hide. We help listeners chart a course into -- and out of – the spotlight. Plus: an apology to Sean Evans, the “pretend agent” that launched a career, and the all-too-common confusion around Patrick Stewart and Patrick Swayze.

Segments in this episode:

• TV NV in NYC - “I want an internship but I’m not in Kansas anymore”
• Kitemath is an award-winning design team specializing in corporate communications. They work across media to solve problems and help companies connect with their employees, consumers and other key audiences. We thank Chris and Jen for designing our new logo. Learn more about this amazing firm and the high-impact work they do at Kitemath.com.
• It’s Funny until someone Dies in Pittsburgh - “OMG, I emailed a carton about a stupid boss to my stupid boss”
• The Gist: “5 Ways to Make a Lasting Impression” by Jeff Vijungco from TheMuse.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Recreational marijuana is all the buzz but what happens when Mary Jane dances a little too close to the office? We explore the complicated tapestry of state law, company policy and individual liberty. Is pot the new alcohol or is it a little more complicated? On a completely unrelated topic … Chris, Tim and Jack talk about their favorite binge-worthy snacks.

Segments in this episode

• Taking the High Road in Durham - “I saw my employee smoking a joint!”
• Purely Hypothetical Scenario: If – for whatever reason – you suddenly get the munchies, what is your go-to snack?
• Dazed and Confused in Vancouver - “My staff wants a new kind of office party”
• The Gist: “Marijuana in the Workplace … How to Craft an HR Policy” as published by HSI

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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When does a stretch goal become a fool’s errand? This week listeners share their challenges with unrealistic expectations both foreign (from a client) and domestic (from the boss). Chris shares one of his favorite tools for assessing personality types and channels his inner Ross Perot.

Segments in this episode

• Baffled in the Bay Area - “S.O.S., the boss is setting beyond-audacious growth targets!”
• Fishing for Sponsors: DiSC® is a personal assessment tool used by more than one million people every year to help improve teamwork, communication, and productivity in the workplace. Learn more at DiSCProfile.com
• Doing the Hustle in Houston - “My client’s fake deadlines are causing real problems”
• The Gist: “10 Strategies for Dealing with Difficult Customers ” by Skye Schooley

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Intelligensia Artificialis is not a real phrase but it should be. We tackle two takes on the omnipresent A.I. system, Chat GPT. How can a freelance writer stay relevant? If you find time in your day, should you ask for more work (or just play)? We close with a quick tour of A.I. trends for 2024. Bonus quiz: what do acoustic guitar, snail mail and cloth diaper have in common?

Segments in this episode

• Man vs. Machine in Philly - "How can I keep A.I. from taking my writing gigs?”
• Fishing for Sponsors: Back by popular demand … a live, on-air taste test of spicy gummies from Pakistan, made possible by our friends at ExoticSnackGuys.com
• HAL’s the Word in Hartford - "Chat GPT cut my writing time in half, should I ask for more work?"
• The Gist: “Will A.I. Take Your Job? Fear of A.I. and Trends for 2024” by Kazimierz Rajnerowicz

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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What to do when a co-worker’s pride and joy becomes your noisy nemesis? A cry for help as the office devolves into a petting zoo. In a first for the podcast, we help two listeners from the same company! Plus, an homage to a dark chocolate-enrobed peppermint confection.

Segments in this episode

• Hound from Hell in Accounting - “How do I handle this furry miscreant?”
• An interlude: waxing poetic about the York Peppermint Patty (and the other Peppermint Patty)
• To Hell with this Menagerie in Accounting - “The office looks and smells like Noah’s Ark”
• The Gist: “How to Create a Pet Policy for Your Office” by Julie Thompson from Business.com

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Sharing the gym – and the locker room – with coworkers can lead to some uncomfortable encounters! Tune in to hear Chris and Tim help listeners avoid pulling a hamstring when access to amenities gets awkward.

Segments in this episode

• Exorcised in LA - “My boomer boss wants me to be his workout buddy”
• Fishing for Sponsors: The StopAlong serves impressive pizza, burgers and more! The Wicker Park and Logan Square locations are both walking distance from Tim’s house … how great is that? Check out the menu www.TheStopAlong.com
• My Private Parts Stay Private in Jersey - “I’m the only one wearing a towel in the company locker room”
• The Gist: “Amenity Downsides: When an Employee Shower Becomes a Liability” by Peak Construction (Rosemont, IL)

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Did you know the number one fear in America is glossophopia? Chris and Tim help a listener manage their high anxiety. Next, they discuss how to tap the brakes on an unreserved rookie without crushing his spirit.

Segments in this episode

• Naked Below the Waist in Boston - “I am so nervous about presenting to senior management”
• Fishing for Sponsors: A live, on-air taste test of banana candies from Serbia and Croatia, made possible by our friends at The Exotic Snack Guys
• Loud and Proud in Savannah - “The new kid is sharp but chimes in early and often”
• The Gist: “America’s Top 7 Phobias” by Dr. Kathryn Soule, Anxiety Specialist

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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In this episode, Chris and Tim offer advice on collaborating with co-workers from around the globe. The hosts discuss a resource for assessing and developing “cultural competence.” Are you a Gemini? You are if you like great food served in a comfortable, welcoming setting!

Segments in this episode

• Defending or Offending in St Paul - "How do I help a non-assertive co-worker without playing into a stereotype?”
• Fishing for Sponsors: Gemini is fabulous American restaurant in Chicago's beautiful and historic Lincoln Park neighborhood. Chris heads there to enjoy a juicy steak grab or grab a burger while relaxing at the bar. Learn more at www.GeminiChicago.com
• A Dream Team in Dallas - "How do I break the ice with my new, multi-national team?"
• The Gist: “Cultural Competence: The Nuts & Bolts of Diversity & Inclusion” by Mercedes Martin and Billy Vaughn from Diversity Officer Magazine

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Tune in to hear Chris and Tim help listeners navigate the sense and sensibility of eating at the office and weigh the risks and rewards of drinking with clients. Is there a new sponsor on the horizon? Only time will tell …

Segments in this episode

• Flabbergassed in Baltimore - “The new girl is stinking up our office!”
• Fishing for Sponsors: Freeze-dried crunchy bears? The Exotic Snack Guys scour international marketplaces for unique and limited items! Check them out at www.ExoticSnackGuys.com
• Three Sheets to the Wind in Phoenix - “Trying to close a deal with a client that likes to imbibe”
• The Gist: “12 Do’s and Don’ts for Drinking with Clients” by Andrew Seale

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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How do you deal with a little old lady who happens to be a liar and a slacker and a favorite of the owner? Can you advance as the nice guy at a firm full of cut-throat alphas? In this episode Chris and Tim share advice for dealing with office a-holes.

Segments in this episode

• Sweet Old Lady My Ass in Omaha - “She’s a total jerk but the owners love her!”
• Nice Guys Don’t Even Get in the Race in Boston - “I need to be an asshole to get promoted?”
• The Gist: “5 Proven Tactics For Dealing With Jerks At Work” by MeiMei Fox

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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This week Chris and Tim give tips on starting a job search and navigating changes to the work from home policy. We also talk through some practical advice for a smooth re-entry after a vacation.

Segments in this episode

• Frozen in Place in Pasadena - “I’m done with my job but can’t get past my fear of leaving!”
• Tag, I’m IT in Wichita - “Help! My office is about to end our work-from-home policy.”
• The Gist: “Going Back To Work After A Vacation: 5 Tips” by Beth Braccio Hering

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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In this episode we wade into the waters of the grumps, the grumblers, the bellyachers and malcontents. Chris and Tim offer advice on dealing with whining in the workplace and share takeaways from an article on dealing with chronic complainers.

Segments in this episode

• Flabbergast In Fremont … "OMG, my new staff person just asked for an easier assignment!”
• STFU in Jeff City - "My neighbor in the office complains about everything and everyone!"
• The Gist: “6 Ways To Deal With Chronic Complainers” by Gwen Moran

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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This week we hear from listeners struggling to toe the company line when they have reservations about the products they’re asked to sell. Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss navigating company misfires and reflect on some epic marketing fails.

Segments in this episode

• Electrifying Bad in White Plains … “Our dealership just got the new EV and it sucks!”
• No Tips if you Do, No Job if you Don’t in Geneva “What if our lunch special isn’t so special?”
• RIP: New Coke and the American Airlines AAirpass

We want to hear about the drama, the dilemmas, and the conundrums that you face at work! All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent.

Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com, tweet us: @cubicleconfide1 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast.

These next two weeks will be a little different here at Cubicle Confidential. Tim McClure, the owner of Blue Oak Consulting LLC will be the substitute co-host with Chris De Santis while Mary wraps up a very busy year at her firm Careerstone Group.

While Mary will be missed, all is not lost. We’re going to take this opportunity to learn about strategy, a topic Chris find interesting but knows little about it, luckily Tim does, and he’s got stories to prove it.

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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These next two weeks will be a little different here at Cubicle Confidential. Tim McClure, the owner of Blue Oak Consulting LLC will be the substitute co-host with Chris De Santis while Mary wraps up a very busy year at her firm Careerstone Group.

While Mary will be missed, all is not lost. We’re going to take this opportunity to learn about strategy, a topic Chris find interesting but knows little about it, luckily Tim does, and he’s got stories to prove it.

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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During a recent Managing Up presentation, Mary received some questions about dealing with a variety of bosses. She thought it would be fun to get Chris’ input on them, too!

Tune into this week’s episode to learn how to work with an impulsive boss, ask for help when you’re spread too thin, share your achievements with your manager, and so much more!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us at: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us at @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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This week we hear from a listener trying to figure out how to select a candidate for a promotion, one seeking to climb the corporate ladder, and another one who realized their new role isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice surrounding giving promotions and getting promoted!

King Solomon’s Redux in Virginia has two perfectly suited candidates for a promotion but only one slot. They’re both outstanding at managing their respective retail stores and this promotion will elevate one to regional manager. Beyond filling the regional manager slot with a qualified candidate, they’re also tasked with adding more diversity to the management cadre. How can they keep both of these fantastic performers while only promoting one?

Do This Not That in Texas works for a retail chain and excels in product placement when stocking shelves. They’ve increased sales by 10-15% on certain products based solely on where they put them. Unfortunately, their manager never gives them the credit they deserve. Being at the bottom rung of the ladder, how can they get the attention of senior management and supercharge their career?

Charles Doesn’t Want To Be In Charge in Spokane just got promoted and discovered they HATE managing other people. They’re tired of dealing with their scheduling needs, questions, and sucking up. This clearly isn’t the job for them, but the pay is significantly better. They’d much prefer to just do their old job. Is there any way they can make this work or should they just look for a new job that pays the same without the added responsibilities?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: at info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: at @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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Do office holiday parties get you in the festive spirit or turn you into the Grinch?

Our listeners are navigating some ho, ho, horribly awkward holiday situations at work.

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to handle this season with a little extra joy and cheer!

Shit Canned at Christmas in Atlanta got laid off from his job and his fiancé—who works at the same company—wants him to attend the annual holiday party with her as if nothing happened. How can he get through this event and answer the question “how’s it going” when things aren’t going well.

Santa’s Secret Is Safe in Stanford in participating in the company’s annual Secret Santa. Unfortunately, they drew the name of their boss’ boss. The spending cap is set at $20 for a gift and the present is supposed to be funny. They work for a health sciences lab which is an industry that doesn’t lend itself to people with great senses of humor. Is there a way they can make a favorable and fun impression?

In The Spotlight, Again, in Fremont got a little bit out of control at their annual Christmas outing last year. They were overserved and ended up as the talk of the office for months. Eventually, the chatter died down but now everyone is making jokes at their expense again. They even received a visit from a person in HR who reminded them what is considered appropriate at office functions. Should they attend the party again this year and if so, how do they overcome last year’s shame?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us at: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us at @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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When was the last time you did something brave in your job or career?

This week, we hear from listeners trying to find their voice in meetings, harness extra energy for a retreat, and confront an executive about bogus expense receipts…

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to channel courage in the workplace!

A Sleuth on The Loose in Chicago just started his first real job out of college in a firm where everyone but him has a business degree from a fancy Ivy League school. In meetings, he feels intimidated by the business school crowd—who take up all the air space and seem to do nothing but state the obvious. How can he share what he knows without freezing up and being talked over?

Sharing Is Scaring in Buffalo has to attend a weekend firm retreat in Florida. The retreat is part team-building and part learning. She doesn’t mind the learning part, but she loathes the idea of team building for an entire weekend. There will be networking sessions between offices, levels, and affinity groups. As an introvert, she finds the thought of all this overwhelming. How can she survive all these days and nights without losing her energy (and her mind)?

Pocketing Change in Philadelphia works in accounting for a consulting firm. They handle invoicing and reimbursing employees for expenses. Recently, they noticed that a senior employee’s expense reimbursement requests consistently lack the necessary receipts for things like cabs, meals, etc. This person does this way more often and in greater quantities than anyone else in the office. Word among the staff is that he may run this firm one day. Is this issue even worth bringing forward?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: at info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: at @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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What work situations make you cringe?

Some of our listeners find themselves stuck in awkward situations and need support to figure out what to do!

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice about job changes, connection requests, and honest feedback.

Worried About a Gaffe with The Government works for the government with a good job that boasts a great salary and benefits. Unfortunately, their job is being phased out. They interviewed for a highly prestigious position, but this organization expects them to accept the job without providing salary information. Should they take a chance and accept the offer hoping for the best or should they voice their concerns?

Avoiding The Awkward in Arkansas has a “friend” who is launching a new business and has asked our listener for her help in securing new business through introductions to our listener’s client base. The problem is that our listener doesn’t want to help. After multiple unsettling personal and professional interactions, they don’t want to have their name associated with this person and certainly don’t want to waste their clients’ time with someone they don’t respect. How can they gracefully decline this request?

Is Honesty the Best Policy in Hanover has their annual review coming up, and in addition to sharing a narrative on their accomplishments and challenges, their boss wants them to give him feedback on his management style. The problem is that he’s not a very good manager and they suspect he’s not very open to feedback based on their history with him. How honest should they be with their feedback and what’s the best way to deliver it to him?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Decisions, decisions!

This week, our listeners are trying to decide if they (or others) should stay in their jobs or move on to greener pastures…

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on retirement, switching jobs, and making other big career choices (for yourself and others!)

A Few Cards Shy of A Full Deck in Denver has spent 45 years at the same company--working their way up from the mailroom to the C-suite. They now find themselves at a crossroads – either retire or continue to work as a contract employee. They don’t need the money, so they could easily retire but they can’t picture themselves sitting around. If they stay, they’d report to a former direct report who isn’t the sharpest tack in the box. Can they tell the powers that be that this project manager shouldn’t be managing at all?

A Curtain Call in California works in HR and has the unwelcome task of talking to senior partners about retiring. They don’t have a formal retirement age, so some partners stay way past their expiration date. Their contributions have been declining and they cause angst in the other partners. How do they go about having this difficult conversation?

Painted Into a Corner in Houston’s father started their paint business nearly 53 years ago and it has grown into a seven-store chain. Now, it’s being run by second and third-generation family members but their father still comes in every day. If he doesn’t like what’s going on in a store, he’ll grab the employees and make them do things the way he thinks they should be done. Our listener is supposed to confront his Dad about this, but it’s still his business. Is there any way they can get Dad to see things differently?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: at info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Do you strive for fame and fortune?

Some of our listeners do, too and others have already achieved it.

In this week’s show, Mary and Chris address the wins and woes of being famous!

Too Big for His Breeches in Boise runs a management training company. Their business is booming. To meet client demand, they farm out much of the work to subcontractors, and one of their most popular contractors is using his reputation to demand more money than the other subcontractors. How can they keep him in the fold without ruffling any feathers with the rest of the contractors?

The Big Bang Theory in Trenton had an employee perform an amazing act at one of their production facilities recently. She caught an error that literally prevented the plant from exploding. However, she’s not the best worker otherwise – so bad, that she’s actually on a Performance Improvement Plan. After this big save, she thinks she’s untouchable. How can they convince her or management she needs to be moved on or moved out?

What Wood You Do in Minnesota has a side hustle that’s growing in popularity so much so that they might have a shot at being an influencer. They take their knowledge from their full-time job and relay it to their side hustle. They’re worried because the company they work for doesn’t allow part-time jobs and they’re very private in how they operate. What should they do if, and/or when their company finds out?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you more of an optimist, pessimist, or realist?

This week, we hear from listeners who find it challenging to work with bosses or coworkers on the other end of that spectrum. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to bridge that gap!

No Motion with This Lotion in Memphis works for a boss who is wildly optimistic, yet not too practical. He recently set an unrealistic sales goal for their latest skincare line. How can they respectfully convince their boss that this goal is unrealistic?

Cassandra Works Here works next to a negative Nancy. Nothing is ever going well for her – not in her life, job, family, or health. Every time she opens her mouth, she says something tragic. They’re at their wit's end. What can they do to avoid sending in a letter of resignation?

Half As Good or Twice As Bad in Dallas manages a team with two employees who couldn’t be more different. One is always upbeat and hopeful but makes little mistakes while the other finds fault in everything but is a high performer. Can these two be fixed?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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All human beings have a neuropsychological need for status. We need to feel that we are worthy and valued in the eyes of others. So, what happens when people lower our status? Or when we feel our status gets in the way of positive workplace relationships?

A Star is Made and Born in Kentucky feels his increased status and success as a professional in the big city has impacted his ability to connect with her hometown friends and family.

You Talkin’ To Me in Upstate New York just got snubbed by some executives at her company. She was invited to attend a planning meeting with upper-level management only to be talked over and dismissed. Should she say something?

No Tall Poppies in Poland believes that touting one’s accomplishments to others is arrogant. They were brought up to be humble and unassuming. However, now they worry that their exaggerated humility may be hurting their career…

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Do you know the number one aspect of creating high-performance organizations?

If you said trust, you nailed it!

This week, we hear from listeners who want to earn trust or learn to trust. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on creating a culture of trust in the workplace.

Catering To My Needs in Portland is the first to admit they’re a micromanager. Paying attention to details has gotten them to where they are now. Their recent promotion means they’ll do more managing and less “doing”. Quite frankly, they don’t trust the people reporting to them to produce the same quality work that they did. How can they learn to let go and still maintain control from on high?

Fool Me Once in Fremont works in accounts payable and is tired of getting thrown under the bus by a senior manager in another department. Out of the blue, that same senior manager wants our listener to co-lead a corporate-level process improvement initiative to streamline invoicing. It’s an opportunity to be seen by the higher-ups but knowing this manager’s history, they fear they could end up just being the fall guy. Can they say yes and if so, how do they avoid the bus?

Faking It in Phoenix has been asked to go to college campuses to do recruiting. They have been paired with someone they find arrogant, loud, and inappropriate. The problem is that the other guy acts all charming around potential recruits, but when they’re not in front of recruits, he’s a total jerk. They’re supposed to look like teammates, but our listener has a hard time pretending to like this guy. Any advice on how to get past his obnoxiousness?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: at info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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On this week’s re-release schedule, we have a fan favorite from Season Two – “It’s Not Me, It’s You.” This episode is all about dealing with annoying people because, unfortunately, they always have been and always will be a fact of life at work.

Let’s be honest—sometimes other people are just a pain in the a**. In this week’s show, Mary and Chris address a myriad of listeners’ challenges in navigating difficult colleagues and situations.

Feeling Like a Highschooler in Scottsdale is being iced out by her colleagues. They treat her like an outcast. Is there any way she can turn this situation around? Should she tell her supervisor? Confront the mean girls? Or just call it a day?

Happy to See You in Hoboken is trying to convince her colleagues that hiring for culture fit is just as important as hiring for skills. How does she make her case and change their minds?

Serenity Now in Santa Ana has a business partner (who is also her husband) who barrages her all day long with texts. How can she get him to stop or at least organize them into a semblance of a to-do list?

Join us next week for an all new episode!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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This week, we’re re-releasing our most popular episode from Season One and third most popular episode of all time – Promotion Motion. If you’re here to accelerate your career, you came to the right place and won’t want to miss this greatest hit!

Are you trying to climb up the corporate food chain? Trying to crack that promotion code? Or are you tired of being passed over for promotions? If so, then this episode is for you!

Mary and Chris answer questions on how to power up your promotion prospects. Hint: Just doing your job isn’t enough…

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Next up on our re-release schedule is a timeless classic! We’re heading all the way back to the Season One for this fan favorite – “My Boss Sucks” to help our listeners deal with their bad bosses.

“Conflicted on the Crew” wants to know if and how he should intervene on a difficult boss.

“Recovering in Rhode Island” needs advice in dealing with a gaslighter.

Tips abound in this episode for navigating difficult and toxic bosses!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Did you know that only 48% of Americans use all their vacation days?

You have paid time off for a reason, and taking a vacation reduces stress, improves well-being, and boosts productivity, so it’s important to capitalize on that benefit!

This week, we hear from listeners who don’t want to let their PTO go to waste. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to ask your boss for some me time.

Use It Or Lose It in Atlanta hasn’t taken a vacation in seven years, so they’ve been banking their time off. Recently, their company changed their PTO policy to a “use it or lose it” system. Their existing 14 weeks of vacation time must be used within the next 24 months, or they lose it. If they want to use it all up at once, they could be gone for weeks or months at a time. They recently received a promotion, so they fear taking their PTO time now could leave a bad taste with their company. Can they fulfill their dream of sitting on the beach while staying in the company’s good graces?

Anchors Away in Charlotte received an invitation to speak at a nonwork-related conference in Oslo. The company they work for has several big plants in Germany, so they thought they could use their work budget to pay for their trip to Oslo. Is it ethically dubious to mix work with personal and what’s the downside if someone finds out about the nonwork-related conference?

In Need of A Little Me Time in Honolulu is supposed to be on vacation yet they find themselves sitting with an open laptop answering emails. They’ve been fielding questions from their boss and subordinates almost every day and, with the time differences, they’re working into the evening. While they can put aside the questions from their subordinates, they feel obligated to address their boss’ questions. How can they tell their workaholic boss that they need some me time?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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We’re taking a little trip down memory lane to revisit one of our most popular episodes! This week, we’re traveling back in time to Season Two to relearn how to navigate generational friction at work – which is essential to succeeding in today’s multi-generational workplace!

Do generational differences have work have you perplexed? Annoyed? Confused? Do you look at other generations at work and think to yourself WTF?

Well, Chris De Santis is here to help! In honor of his newly published book Why I Find You Irritating: Navigating Generational Friction at Work, Chris and Mary answer questions from multiple generations about how to deal with each other.

“Ants in My Pants in Ann Arbor” wants to turn down a promotion to travel the world. After 4 years in the workforce, they feel they need a break. WTF?

“My Way or the Highway in Hawaii” is frustrated that their young employees don’t want to come into a physical office. Yet, they complain that they don’t feel “connected” to the firm. WTF?

“He Who Has Had It with Them in Everywhere USA” doesn’t know what to make of the focus on pronouns. After 30 years of work experience, he is having trouble making sense of this “pronoun thing.” WTF?

PPS: Mary says that Gen X is really the greatest generation ever!!!!

Show us your love! Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you looking to make a move within your company?

Maybe you want a new role or maybe you are trying to decide whether to change bosses.

This week, we hear from listeners interested in advancing their careers and setting themselves up for success at work. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on mentorship, internal mobility, and moving up the corporate ladder!

Alice in Corporateland, Minnesota is new to corporate life, and she doesn't think she is prepared for it. Both of her parents worked for themselves. While her parents are supportive, they know nothing about a big corporation. She was assigned a buddy to help show her the ropes, but her “buddy” has only been at the company for a year. Now that she figured out where the restrooms are, how can they get a promotion?

From Balance Sheets to Silk Sheets in Cincinnati works in the accounting department of a luxury goods company. They’ve been there for three years and love the company but not their job. They would rather work in marketing. The company runs a mentoring program which could be a great opportunity to get to know someone in the marketing department but they don’t want their future mentor to think they’re trying to use them. Is there a way to go about this without potentially offending someone they might report to one day?

Mentored Or Tormentored in the Big Apple works as an analyst at an investing firm. The best performer at the company is a hard ass with a short fuse. She has a terrible reputation as a manager but a great one in the industry. They’d like to learn more about what she does but were cautioned that she goes through analysts like nobody’s business. It’s like “The Devil Wears Prada” x10. Could this be a great opportunity or a horrible mistake?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Let’s go around the world in 30 minutes!

Our listeners are working across the globe, and they need our help dealing with time changes that leave them always on the clock, bridging cultural gaps, and transferring overseas.

Tune in to travel to workplaces far and wide with us in this episode!

Not Enthralled with Being On Call in Milwaukee works for a company with offices in Asia, France, and the U.S. None of the organizational leaders are based in the U.S. which means she must attend virtual meetings at all hours of the day and night. She’s not getting any sleep – and she has a newborn at home. She’s starting to feel the strain of being on the clock 24/7! What can she do to get her bosses on board with having meetings that don’t start at 4 am or 11 pm?!

Offended Not Befriended in Atlanta is a consultant for an India-based IT firm and is struggling to connect with her U.S. clients. She learned that her colleagues possess multiple misconceptions about India – some of which are offensive. Being the only woman on the team and coming from a country that adheres to the organizational hierarchy, how can she correct them without coming across as not being a so-called “team player” in the American sense?

Anchors Away in LA works in the diversity space of “Big Law” and wants to get transferred from their firm’s U.S. location to their offices in London. The firm has over 1,800 lawyers in the U.S., Canada, and various European countries with London as their main office. She’s never been outside of the U.S. and would love to take this opportunity to work overseas. Her boss is on board but said that she’ll have to make a case to the managing partner in the London office. Any tips on how she can sell herself and convince them to bring her on board?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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What’s a dish that’s best served cold?

Yes, you guessed it! We’re talking about revenge.

This week, we hear from listeners who aren’t interested in forgiving and forgetting but want to get back at their perpetrators. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice about whether or not, revenge is a dish that should be served at all…

Here Not There in Zelienople is dealing with a revengeful colleague who is bitter that she got a better office space at the new HQ than he did. Now, this bitter colleague is making her life miserable. To make matters worse, our listener has a dotted line reporting structure to this person. The office space allocations were determined by the VP of HR who likes things the way they are. How can they respond to petty revenge tactics while still maintaining a professional relationship?

Tips On Lying in Louisville is a bartender at a neighborhood watering hole and has a regular customer who NEVER tips. It turns out another customer has a crush on the non-tipper. When the interested party expressed interest in the cheapskate, our listener told her that the guy has a drinking problem. They lied and now feel awful since knowing them both, they think the two would hit it off. Is there a way to fix this without looking like a s*%#?

Givers To Takers in Gurney works as a floor manager at a distribution center. He was up for a promotion and part of his plan was to have lunch with the boss and talk about ways they can improve the physical movement of inventory at the plant that would save both time and money. Interestingly, he didn’t get the promotion, but his boss eventually did. Guess what? Six months later his boss introduces the improvement plan as his idea. What a piece of work! How can he get even with his boss for not only robbing them of their promotion but stealing his idea?!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you afraid to give feedback? Does the idea of giving someone difficult feedback give you cold sweats?

Well, fear no more, because, in this special episode, Chris and Mary are joined by author and feedback expert Joe Hirsch! Joe shares his wisdom on how to give fearless feedback. If you want to have more caring, candid, and collaborative conversations, Joe shows us how.

Joe Hirsch, author of The Feedback Fix, helps organizations design and deliver feedback without fear. An internationally recognized expert on leadership and communication, Joe has earned accolades from Fortune 500 executives to NFL coaches for his forward-thinking approach to improving organizational culture and effectiveness. Described by Wharton professor Adam Grant as a “breath of fresh air,” Joe makes research-based practices more accessible to improve the way people work, learn, and lead. (Yes, he’s putting that shiny Ph.D. to good use.)

In The Feedback Fix, Joe presents a bold alternative to traditional feedback techniques and performance management practices. He’s shared that message as a TEDx and international keynote speaker with Fortune 500 leadership teams, members of the U.S. armed forces, and close to 10,000 others across three continents.

Joe’s work and research have been featured in Harvard Business Review, Inc., Forbes, CNBC, The Wall Street Journal, and other major outlets. When Joe isn’t on stage or hosting his popular podcast, I Wish They Knew, he’s probably doing something outdoors with his wife and four boys.

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Have you ever made a decision and then almost immediately regretted it? Or maybe you’ve been sold something that wasn’t quite what it seemed?

This week, we hear from listeners who are in some sticky situations that they’re looking to get out of or turn around. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to make lemonade out of lemons!

The Bavarian Blues in Paramus took a job at a company because of the opportunity to work overseas. Well, the company kept their promise and they plan to send our listener to Germany for 18 months. The problem? They don’t want to go anymore. They met someone recently and want to see where it goes. Plus, they don’t want to move to a small town in Bavaria. They like the work they’re doing stateside but took the job knowing that a temporary move was part of the deal. Any thoughts on whether they can have it both ways?

Color Blind to Your True Colors in Omaha is a store manager for a popular health and fitness chain. They were recently informed by HR that an employee has complained about not being allowed to bring her authentic self to work. She feels the company uniform and how she’s being told to interact with customers doesn’t conform to how she sees herself. She’s quick to anger and shows little patience with customers or staff. If authentic means she can be an asshole, they want no part of it. How can they navigate this new terrain?

On Hold in Houston accepted a job for a “people first” company where they were told we "empower our people” to make the customer happy. Well, they’re at a call center where they can’t even get up to use the bathroom without permission. If they spend too much time trying to resolve a customer concern, the floor manager walks over and debriefs the call with them – implying they did something wrong. Lunch isn’t even an hour. They’ve only been there three months, but it feels like a lifetime. Is it too soon to quit? What do they tell an interviewer? And more importantly, how do they not fall for a scam like this again?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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We’re going back to the beginning and reviewing our ABC’s…

…and in this case, we mean Always Be Closing in relation to making sales.

This week, we hear from listeners who could use some extra support to close deals. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ top sales advice!

Beauty’s Only Skin Deep in Sacramento just started her first job at a popular beauty products chain. She’s a salesperson and the job pays minimum wage plus commission. She’s never sold stuff before and asked two other people who are good at it how to sell but they both looked at her funny – like she asked a stupid question. She thinks they might view her as competition because if she makes a sale, then they don’t. Any sales advice for beginners?

Growing A Team in Milwaukee manages a group of five lawn care salespeople. The summer season has arrived and it’s a great opportunity to sell and upsell customers. One of their salespeople, Barb, is a star. She’s the best performer and can sell anything. Two of the other employees are decent – one knows lawn care and the other knows lawn equipment. Then there’s the new one who is amazing with the technical aspects but can’t seem to close a sale. How can they turn their sales team into five Barbs – or is that even possible?

Small But Mighty in Fairfield is working on a pitch for a potentially big client. They’re a small consulting firm with only six employees, two of whom are admin. Their fear is that because they’re a small team, the client might think they aren’t big enough to take on the project. How can they make the most of their team to impress them and convince them they’re fit for the job?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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There are some new kids on the block!

Gen Z’er’s are entering the workplace and they’re bringing their opinions, feelings, and social awareness with them.

Some of our listeners are struggling to understand and work with this younger generation. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ strategies to maximize the potential of these new youngsters in the workplace.

Trigger’s A Horse in Houston wants to know what the heck “being triggered” means. They had a weird experience at an employee orientation session where they explained the consequences of not storing equipment properly. Working in a manufacturing facility with robotic equipment on the line means misplaced tools can be hazardous – and result in potentially losing a limb. Well, that set this one lady off and she goes to HR claiming she was triggered by being exposed to violent scenarios. WTF – doesn’t safety trump feeling triggered?!

Hacked Off By Her Hacking in Palo Alto works in IT at a mid-sized law firm. They just hired a new employee who has been there a month and has already found several serious flaws in the IT systems. They should be happy because she’s doing great work, but her people skills --or rather lack of this--are a problem. Frankly, no one on her team can stand her. While she may be right, she makes people feel stupid. They’d love to keep her because of her amazing contributions, but her behavior is doing serious damage to team morale. What should they do?

NoZ in LA is 23 and just started working at an accounting firm. Their new boss is a self-described “Millennial” and wants to understand what makes us Gen Z tick. They told their boss that they don’t see themselves as a category or even part of a group. She gave them an odd look and backed away. Now the boss thinks they have an attitude problem – which they don’t. How can they explain who they are without getting into what they may or may not be based on what the boss has read about Gen Z?

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Career mobility might not be as straightforward as you think…

…because not everyone actually wants to move up the corporate ladder (shocking, we know!)

This week, we hear from a listener wanting to move up, one looking to step down, and one ready to move across. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to take control of your career – no matter where you want to take it!

All That Sparkles Is Not Gold in Virginia would like to convince her boss not to promote her. She also has no interest in managing people – she likes her current role as a salesperson and she’s good at it. If she says “no” to the promotion, she’s afraid her boss will promote a guy, whose romantic advances she spurned a while back. She’s afraid if he gets the promotion, he’ll make her life miserable. What should she do?

Lumbering Along in Jeff City is 62 years old and manages a lumberyard in Missouri. The owner is 79, in failing health, and asked if he could run the place. While he loves the owner, he wants to retire in three years and doesn’t see himself taking on all the additional headaches of running the whole organization just to leave in a few years. Should he come clean and tell the owner he doesn’t want the job (which will break his heart) or does he take the job until the owner passes?

Padre Conoces Mejor in Alburquerque works for a third-generation local Mexican restaurant chain. He’s one of three siblings in the family business. He and his two sisters each manage a location. Their father wants him to take over. Two problems: his sister runs a much better operation, and he doesn’t want to run the business. He wants to be a chef, not a manager. Their father is old school and thinks the business needs to pass down to the son. How can he get past his father’s biases and make himself, his sisters, and his father happy?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you a creature of habit?

Maybe you wake up at the same time each morning, eat the same meal for lunch, or are wed to particular processes or protocols.

This week we hear from a few listeners stuck in their ways and one who wants to change them.

My Way Or The Highway in Wyoming is trying to teach a new employee how to properly take inventory and it’s falling on deaf ears. They explain it, show him how it’s done, and even watch him do it. But as soon as they’re out of sight, he doesn’t follow the procedure. The job gets done but it’s not the most efficient way to do it. How can they get the new guy to adhere to their process?

OCDo Or OUDon’t in Cleveland works in a hybrid office that started hoteling. This means they are at the mercy of available space. Here’s the problem: the space isn’t always the same and they have a certain setup they need before starting work and occasionally their space is communal. Other employees end up in their space and touch their stuff. They need what they need--the way they need it. How can they make this understood without coming off as odd or compulsive?

Stuck In A Rut in Rosemont has worked at a warehouse facility outside of Chicago for eight years. They’re around the same people every day. For years, a group of them have had lunch together. While they generally enjoy the company, they’re getting tired of the routine. They like the people but not the routine. How do they bow out of this social obligation without generating any bad feelings?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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“There aren’t enough hours in the day!”

Do you feel like you have too much to do and too little time?

You’re not alone.

This week we hear from listeners who feel like time isn’t on their side. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ best time management tips!

Paula The Procrastinator works in professional services and needs help to overcome her procrastinator ways. She just finished the first year of her first real job and always seems to be behind. Her manager is happy with her work but unhappy that she waits until the last minute to deliver the goods. How can she prevent her procrastination from derailing her career?

Saying No in DC is a supervisor in a highly functioning government agency that provides stellar service to stakeholders. While that’s great and all, the burnout is very real. Nobody wants to say “no” and now they find themselves on the road to burnout. Their latest employee viewpoint scores have dropped dramatically. The reason no one feels empowered to say no to requests is because of fear of funding being cut. What to do?

Hate Being Late in Louisiana has a colleague who is always late for everything. Late on deadlines, meetings, lunch – you name it and they’re late to it. They’re a good person, but their lack of punctuality feels selfish and disrespectful. Is there anything that can be done to get this person to be on time? Or how can they stop stressing about their colleague’s lack of punctuality?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

careeradvice #timemanagement #workplaceadvice

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What really gets under your skin?

Is it when employees make the same mistakes over and over again? Or maybe it’s ungrateful staff…or just plain jerks in the workplace?

This week we hear from listeners who are feeling annoyed and need to rant about it!

Fed Up in Chicago is a partner at a big bad law firm and is being framed as the villain because he’s asking his associates to stay late, come in early, or redo work that doesn’t meet his standards. And all he gets is grief! He’s just responding to their clients – the same ones who pay their six-figure salaries. The young associates must have known the level of effort expected before they got here because it’s not a secret. Has this generation decided that work is an option? And can we stop all the work-life balance talk?

Up To Here With Suck Ups in Syracuse works with a stone-cold jerk. He’s a sarcastic, passive-aggressive, narcissistic toadie. If he crawled any further up their boss’s ass, he’d be looking out his mouth. Their boss doesn’t see his true colors because this piece of work is all sweetness and light in the boss’s presence. How can they get him the f*@# out of their life without quitting a job they otherwise love?

Dreadful Divas in Data works at a software firm in California and before the pandemic, they built a new office space and customized it to meet the requests of their workforce. It has a gym, dining hall, game room, meditation space walking trails, and even a barista. Now they’re back on a hybrid schedule and the office is half empty. They spent millions creating a space that no one is using – totally bogus! Even if the employees don’t use it, what about a little gratitude? Is there any way to get people back in the office without threats of quitting?!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Age is just a number! Well, until it isn’t.

Our listeners are feeling some of the pains of getting older – and we don’t mean back aches. We’re talking about ageism at work.

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice about how to deal with ageism in the workplace.

Aging Angst in Manhattan recently saw Chris DeSantis speak where he asked the audience who were the Boomers in the room. They didn’t raise their hand because they think that their firm is trying to push out the Boomers and replace them with younger, cheaper workers. What can they do to continue working here?

I’m Not Dorian Grey in Michigan is 51 years old but looks considerably older than the other VPs. They work in an industry that admires vitality. The CEO is 67 but looks younger than them. They are afraid that their less-than-young look might need to be refreshed– with maybe a face or neck lift. Will that help, hurt, or make no difference in their chances to move up?

Howard Johnson’s This Ain’t works in HR for a casual dining franchise. The restaurant’s theme is all about having fun as soon as you walk in the door. They have games and contests – focusing on a young demographic. The more “mature” employees feel like they’re being discriminated against since the front-of-the-house positions mostly go to the younger employees. It might be true, but that’s what they’re trying to sell. Is there a way around this to make everyone happy?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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So, you’ve been promoted to manager…congratulations! And, well, condolences.

Managing a team can be a great resume builder and a rewarding way to develop talent, but it’s certainly no walk in the park.

This week, we hear from listeners whose leadership positions are leaving them stuck between a rock and a hard place.

In this special 100th episode, it’s Mary’s turn to face off against the machine this time. Tune in to hear top management advice from Mary and ChatGPT! And you get to decide who wins!

A Manager’s Dilemma in Delaware works in the tech field and manages a department of about 20 people. They hired too many people during the pandemic, so now they’re starting layoffs. He’s been told that he must reduce his staff by 20% - cutting between 4-6 people. Everyone on his team is really strong and he doesn’t want to be the bad guy. The weight of this decision and the guilt are killing him. How does he decide who stays and who goes?

Not Blind to the Bullying in Boulder is a mid-level Director in a large, national non-profit. They’re fairly new to the company, but they recently became aware of a troubling situation…one of their peers is a toxic leader. He screams, shouts, bullies, and demeans. His employees have been reaching out for help. Our dear listener has seen one of his employees crying in the bathroom on more than one occasion. Turning a blind eye is wrong, but will saying something impede their ability to succeed? SOS!

Negating the Naysayers in Nebraska manages a local chapter of a national association and they’re facing a wall of resistance from committee members. Every time they or their staff suggests a new strategy, program, or event, the members of the committee resist – saying things like “that’ll never work” or “We tried that 10 years ago and it didn’t work...” The chapter is underperforming but they can’t seem to get through to the members, but, because they’re an association, can’t fire the people on the committee…how can they deal with this reluctance to change?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Thanks for listening! Producing these past 100 episodes has been a total labor of love. Or, well, at least a labor. Please connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter!

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How do you remain authentic while keeping it work-appropriate?This week, we’re hearing from listeners who want to bring their true selves to work while keeping their careers on track…and sometimes those two things don’t necessarily line up.

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to keep it real and run a tight ship to get ahead and stay ahead.

Time Matters in Tempe’s boss is always late to team meetings – like 15-20 minutes late…and when he shows up, he never acknowledges that he’s late and acts like that was the time the meeting was supposed to start. This means that meetings scheduled for 30 minutes end up taking an hour. Sometimes he doesn’t even show up at all! No explanation, no apologies. How can they raise this problem to their boss without getting on his shit list?

Make Up Free And Happy To Be Me in Maryland works in the marketing/recruiting department at Big Law. Their workplace is hybrid, and they have a standing Monday morning meeting on Zoom. She’s responsible for getting her kids to daycare on remote days, so she usually joins the team meetings makeup-free, hair in a ponytail, and wearing a hoodie. But everyone else on her team, especially her boss, looks completely done up. She’s starting to worry that her undone “look” might affect her chances at a promotion.

To Kiss Ass Or Not To Kiss Ass in Alabama has a co-worker who is a pro at kissing their boss’ ass. What advice could be imparted to a novice ass-kisser? Is it a good strategy for getting ahead? How much is too much? Is there a way to kiss some ass and still retain some self-respect?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Mary is shifting the power of this episode…

And she’s making Chris answer three questions he’s never seen before with an added twist!

Chris DeSantis is going up against ChatGPT in this Man vs. Machine duel.

Who do you think will give better advice? The man or the machine?! Does Artificial Intelligence have the power to run us out of business?

Tune in to hear Chris’ and ChatGPT’s answers to these questions:

New Guard in Northern Ireland recently landed her dream job in the childcare field. The organization used to only have a small group of older staff (average age around 60) until they hired three new younger staff members. An unspoken divide has emerged between the “old guard” and the “new guard.” How can they honor the decades of experiences brought in by those who are their senior while encouraging change to meet the needs of 21st-century workplaces?

Vigilant in Virginia serves as an Executive Assistant for the Vice President/Chief of Staff. They’re preparing for their annual performance review with their Advancer boss after their first full year at the organization. They’re feeling anxious since they’re a Harmonizer. How can the Advancer and Harmonizer meet in the middle – especially during a performance review?

Upset Apple Cart in Alexandria volunteers at a local non-profit that helps feed the food insecure. Most of the regular volunteers are retired women, but the non-profit has had a recent influx of retired older men join their ranks. The men constantly disparage the way they do things and have turned this well-oiled machine into an unpleasant clunker. She doesn’t want to quit volunteering but doesn’t know how to keep these old guys from upsetting the entire apple cart. What to do?!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Have you ever made a sacrifice just to fit in?

From slightly changing your appearance to completely ditching your morals, we’re hearing from listeners who feel like outsiders but desire to be in the In-crowd.

Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’s advice on when you should try to fit in or dare to be different and stand out!

Yes, But in Minneapolis took a new corporate job in marketing for a home goods chain. The hiring manager said the company said they needed innovative thinkers who can shake up the status quo. Well, since he took the job, he’s learned it’s closer to the opposite…whenever he makes suggestions or presents new ideas he gets shut down. The pitch in the interview does not match the reality. He knows he can make an impact at the company if given the chance, but he’s one meeting away from searching for another job. Any ideas on how he can get the organization to live up to its sales pitch?

Brash, Bold, and Beautiful in Cherry Creek is a proud black gay man. He was hired as a paralegal for a firm in Denver and stands out like a sore thumb. He’s tall, wears French manicured nails, and dresses in a style that’s a mash-up of Gucci, Off-White, and Vintage. He presented himself this way when he was hired, but now it’s been suggested that he should dress more in line with the company vibe. He thinks they should change their view of men and feels like he owes it to people like him. How can he convince them that being authentic is as real as it gets?

Pretty Stressed in Tampa lost 80 pounds and not only does she feel great, but for the first time in her life she thinks she looks great, too! Other people think so as well and that’s where the problem arises – she’s being treated very differently as a result. She used to be ignored or interrupted at meetings and now those same men – and it is always men who do this – hang on her every word. At the same time, her work girlfriends are suddenly ignoring her. What’s going on? She’s not smarter or less friendly since she’s lost weight, yet that’s how she’s being treated. Any suggestions as to how to turn this around?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Well, that was awkward…

This week, we hear from listeners who are experiencing some cringey situations in their workplaces. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’s suggestions about how to take the awk out of awkward.

Cat’s Out of the Bag in Benton works with a cat lady…who brings her cats into the office. He doesn’t like cats, but the cats apparently like him. They end up under his desk, on his cubicle shelf, or occasionally in his seat. He told HR about the problem, and they told him to sort it out. Short of putting them on a leash, what should he do to get these cats out of his office and life?

A Hamburglar Lurks in Little Rock works in an office of about 70 people and one of them is a food thief. Lately, people are complaining that someone is stealing their food from the shared fridge. The catch? It’s the boss! They saw their empty freezer bag that they use for their afternoon snacks in the boss’ trash can. Do they call him out? Report the boss to HR? Or leave it to (hopefully) blow over?

Mayhem in Memphis is organizing the annual “bring your daughters to work” day. One employee wants to bring her non-binary son into the office. Their company isn't very progressive, and they are worried about negative reactions and possibly bad publicity. On a personal level, they’re completely fine with it but are unsure if everyone else will feel the same way. How should they manage this delicate situation?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Plot twist! Mary is keeping Chris on his toes by giving him the title of the episode without sharing the questions with him in advance – leaving him no time to prepare.

How annoying is that?!

In this episode, listeners share their frustrations at work in the hopes that Mary and Chris can alleviate their annoyances.

Fuhgeddaboudit is 68 years old, still works, and still sends handwritten thank-you notes. He endeavors to be kind every day but feels confused when someone responds to a “Thank you” with the phrase “No problem.” Whatever happened to a gracious “You’re welcome?” He finds it especially vexing when “No problem” is uttered by a person whom he thanked for actually doing their job. Is this a function of his age or is it a New York-specific patois?

Triangled in Trenton was asked to intervene on a mutual friend by one of their most important and influential clients. The client was having an important conversation with some business community bigwigs when their friend approached them and started pitching her services in an overly aggressive, shrill, and drunk manner. And this is not the first time their mutual friend has behaved this way. They told the client that’d say something but are now having second thoughts. Are they the right person for this conversation? If so, how would they go about it? What should they do?!

Tired of the Tirade in Topeka works in a tight-knit accounting department. They all get along great except for one of their colleagues who is a constant complainer. Every conversation is about how someone has wronged him or how “unfair” everything is. He’s always pointing out how their manager plays favorites (which she doesn’t) when he doesn’t get a promotion or plum project. And nothing is ever his fault. Honestly, he is his own worst enemy. Is there a way to get him to see that he’s driving everyone crazy and derailing his own career?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Leading Less is More Like it in Lubbock (Part Two) has just been promoted to manager but they don’t actually want to lead or manage anyone. They’re now “leading” a team of seven people. Their philosophy has always been that the leader is less important than the doer and that the people should just do their job well without interference from a manager. How can they get their new team to think more like them and at the same time not lead them down the path to do so?

Eye on the Prize in Toronto has been identified as a “high potential” in their company and was selected for an elite internal leadership program. The program runs for two years and consists of spending 4 to 6 months in different divisions. The problem? Not every division is very welcoming—in fact, some of them are downright hostile. Is there a way to change these sour attitudes and carve a better path for the “future leaders” who will follow them?

Not So Happy One Hour Later in St. Louis is a manager who may have made a serious faux pas. After a long week of late nights working on a client deliverable, they treated their team to an extended happy hour. After one too many drinks, Not So Happy said a few negative things about the client and their boss. Neither of those individuals was present, but the rest of the team was there. How, if at all, can they address this mess since they don’t want their comments to get back to either the client or their boss?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

leadership #careeradvice #careeradmancement

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Is there a difference between being a manager and a leader?

We tend to use them synonymously, but they’re not the same! Managers tend to be in the work and leaders are more of the work. But great managers must be leaders and great leaders need to have management skills, too.

In this episode, Mary and Chris help listeners learn how to beef up their managerial and leadership skills!

El Hefe La Chica en Chicago is a first-generation Mexican American female and the first in her family to graduate from college. She has just been promoted to manager at a popular casual dining chain. She wants to do everything in her power to come off as a strong leader and make a great first impression. How can she do that? What should she do when she meets her new team to start off on the right foot?

Management One, Leadership Zero in Zion works for a great manager but a lousy leader. They work with him daily and he’s clear, thorough, thoughtful, and organized. He does everything a good manager should do…so, what’s the problem? He doesn’t have a strong leadership presence. When he speaks at big meetings, he’s soft-spoken, clearly nervous, and he sounds anything but confident and decisive. Can they help him be perceived as a better leader or is that not their problem?

Leading Less is More Like it in Lubbock has just been promoted to manager but they don’t actually want to lead or manage anyone. They’re now “leading” a team of seven people. Their philosophy has always been that the leader is less important than the doer and that the people should just do their job well without interference from a manager. How can they get their new team to think more like them and at the same time not lead them down the path to do so?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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How do you feel when you hear the phrase “performance feedback?” If that makes a chill run down your spine, you’re not alone.

This week, we hear from listeners who are grieving over giving or receiving performance evaluations at work. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’s suggestions to take the pain out of feedback.

Round and Round in Galveston just received their first 360 performance review. The feedback report was mixed – with three people saying they were easy to work with while two others felt they were uncommunicative and distant. Based on this information, their boss said they need to do a better job of connecting with people. Without knowing the source of the feedback or why it was said, they feel like there isn’t much they can do about it. Could this be more of a popularity contest than a review? What should they do with this feedback?

Catch 22 in South Carolina works for a company with a stacked rating system where they must rank 10% of their direct reports as exceptional, 80% somewhere in the middle, and 10% assigned to the bottom. The problem is that their team doesn’t align with the mandated bell curve as they have more than 10% as exceptional no one falls close to being in the bottom 10%. Senior management takes note of managers who don’t follow the curve allotment, which means they would be risking their own raise and any chance of promotion if they don’t rate them as instructed. On the flip side, they may lose people if they follow the rating scale. Is there any way out of this strict system? Help!

Tomato, Tomato in Topeka is an HR professional responsible for compiling feedback and scrubbing the sources to keep it anonymous. An issue arises when several of the raters have very different views of the junior consultants. Raters can give wildly different ratings on the same traits being evaluated. Someone could get a “5” in “demonstrates good judgment” from one person and get a “1” from another. They suspect this is due to rater problems and not employee problems since they know some of these raters, and, well, they wouldn’t know good judgment if they were dating it. Is there a way to get better, more consistent ratings from the raters?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

performancemanagement #feedback #careeradvice

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We’re talking all about faux pas…and not the funny fashion kind (no socks and sandals here, folks, sorry!)

Have you ever said something you wish you could take back the second it slips out of your mouth? Surely, most of us have at one point or another.

In this episode, Mary and Chris help listeners who have stuck their foot in their mouth redeem themselves from some grave verbal blunders.

WTF? Am I SOOL (S*t Out Of Luck)? sometimes lets an F-bomb slip…they don’t mean to but when sht happens, they often react in the moment (and no, we’re not talking about Mary). People in the office fall into three camps, the “I don’t cares,” the “I do s**t too’s” and the “how rude’s.” How do they avoid offending folks while staying true to who they are?

Foot In Mouth in Missouri landed a new job and was scheduled to meet with his boss who was out on maternity leave. He thought they’d have a Zoom call, but she showed up in his office. After thanking her for going through the trouble to come in while pregnant, he asked when the baby was due. Turns out she had the baby two months ago…Should he try to fix this awkward interaction or pretend it never happened?

Flummoxed in Fredonia was asked to be on the board of a nonprofit promoting greater diversity and inclusion in manufacturing environments. He was ushered into a conference room for the interview where a young African American woman was wiping down a whiteboard. Before she had a chance to say anything, he asked her if she’d mind getting him a cup of coffee. Ten minutes later she returns to the room with the coffee and five other people. She then introduces herself and the board members. She’s the executive director. Is there a way to overcome this embarrassing first impression?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Money, money, money must be funny in the rich man's world!

One very eager listener, Confounded with Comp in Canada, is interested in maximizing their money at work. Tune in to learn how to:

• Negotiate a higher salary offer with a new employer…
• Ask for a salary range in an interview…
• Answer the dreaded, "What are your salary expectations for this role?"
• Ask for a higher salary in a current role…
• Talk to coworkers about salary…

And more!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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We all want to be in the know but when does having too much information become paralyzing?

This week, we’re hearing from listeners who feel like ignorance would be bliss in their situations. Tune in to hear how Mary and Chris suggest they navigate being overloaded with information.

Too Juicy to Keep Quiet in Queens works for a small marketing firm with about 15 employees. She loves her job and colleagues but recently overheard her boss talking about selling the company. She wasn’t supposed to hear this news but now feels totally blindsided and very concerned. What should she do?

Silently Waiting in Spring Ridge and his colleague were hired at the same time and have been working for the same company for the past 7 years. He just found out that he makes more money than his colleague – a LOT more…now that he knows this information, he’s paranoid that his colleague is going to find out. They are good friends and great coworkers and he doesn’t want that to change. Where does he go from here?

I Know Too Much in Manassas works for a tech company that supports Federal Government agencies. The company started hiring like crazy and finds it increasingly difficult to recruit quality talent. Recently, a job candidate reached out to learn more about what it’s like to work at the company – specifically what it’s like to work for their boss who is a difficult jerk. They’re torn between being honest and turning another great candidate away or stretching the truth and misleading them. Ugh! What to say?

My Ears Hurt in Hartford has a great job working for a commercial property management company. The problem? Her boss won’t shut up! Every time she asks him the simplest question, he responds with an epic diatribe. He’s not mean, he just overtalks and over-explains everything. It’s information overload! Is there anything she can do to get him to either shut up or be more succinct? Help!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

careeradvice #leadershipdevelopment

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Have you ever been on the receiving end of someone’s short fuse? Or maybe you’ve lost your temper at work and find yourself paying the price…

In this episode, Mary and Chris help listeners deal with both their anger issues and the rage of others.

Hiding From Mrs. Hyde in Seattle read Mary’s book and appreciated the section about toxic bosses because, well, they may or may not have one themselves. Their company uses contract employees and full-time ones, and their boss treats the contractors like second-class citizens. They are required to attend meetings without pay, they are mercilessly criticized in public, and often get yelled at when they make a mistake. Does this behavior qualify as toxic and if so, how can they get their boss to change? Gentle Benjamin in Branson is a nice guy but doesn’t look like it. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 270 lbs., he doesn’t look like the most approachable dude. He recently raised his voice in a staff meeting where there was a heated exchange and now everyone seems terrified of him. Can he turn this around or is he doomed to be pinned as the “bad guy”?

Seething in Cincinnati is a facilities manager at a distribution center for a major retailer. Over the last six months, their productivity metrics have steadily declined, and their accident and product damages have increased. His first inclination is to have a come-to-Jesus meeting to light a fire under their asses. Do you attract more flies with honey than vinegar? Can you be angry with your employees in this age of political correctness? Or are we doomed to play nice forevermore?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn – oh my! For better or worse, social media plays a large role in the modern work world. Can what you post influence hiring decisions? Should you leverage social media as a marketing tool?

In this episode, Mary and Chris answer questions about showing up on social media (and the positive and negative implications of it…)

Having Second Thoughts in Secaucus just interviewed the most amazing job candidate for a top spot in a sales department. After doing some due diligence, he discovered some appalling social media posts that he doesn’t agree with. This candidate is a perfect fit for the job but he can’t unsee the content they’ve created. Is this a valid reason not to hire someone?

Make Me Famous in Memphis is a junior partner in a mid-sized law firm and hopes to make partner in the next two years. Their mentor recommended that they “pump up” their thought leadership to build a bigger book of work. They feel overwhelmed by this and have no idea where to even begin. Help!

Fight Club in Phoenix has seen a few of their employees having a knock-down-drag-out spat on social media. They are both popular and influential in the workplace. Is she wrong to be concerned about this? Does this warrant a conversation? How can she handle this without bringing what’s happening on the internet into the office?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

careeradvice #socialmedia #leadershipdevelopment

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Work and romantic relationships – are they a perfect match, or should you stay away? In honor of Valentine’s Day, Mary and Chris dish out their best dating advice.

Tune in to hear from listeners who are feeling the love (or lack of it!) in the air:

Miffed in Murfreesboro is re-entering the workforce and is searching for a new job. She heard about an opening at the company where her husband works. He’s been there 17 years and seems to love it, but he suggests it’s not a great place to work despite her hearing and seeing otherwise. What’s the catch?!

Baffled Near Boise suspects that one of his colleagues at the hospital they work at is flirting with him. He’s concerned about their age gap. Plus, she is always out at the bars with a large group of friends – making it challenging to pull her aside. Should he shoot his shot and ask her out? If so, how should he go about it?

A Lid for Every Pot in Palo Alto is an editor for a popular online magazine who supervises freelancers and copywriters. She thinks that two of her single contractors would make a great pair! Should she play matchmaker, or would that be an inappropriate overstep?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Have you ever been betrayed by a co-worker? Have you ever trusted someone at work and then discovered that they stabbed you in the back? If so, this episode is for you!

Boomeranged in Bethlehem mentored and trained an employee who left the company for more money. The employee has now returned to the company and Boomeranged feels bitter, angry, and betrayed.

Comeuppance Awaits in Texas has a tattletale in his midst. One of his co-workers went out of their way to get someone else in trouble for a minor error in judgment. He now feels he can’t trust this colleague anymore.

Loose Lips are Full of Sht* is a department manager for a non-profit. In a recent conversation with another department manager, they happened to mention that they had ended the year with a budget excess due to an unfilled position. Lo and behold, their colleague went behind their back and snaked that money into their next year’s budget. Betrayed!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Believe it or not, not everybody loves being on stage (which is a sentiment that Chris and Mary do not share). Giving presentations can be very stressful for many people. In this episode, Mary and Chris help listeners sharpen their presentation skills and get over their stage fright.

Petrified about the Panel in Pennsylvania has been invited to sit on a panel and is terrified! They’ve never spoken in front of an audience this large (800 people!) and their boss keeps telling them that this is a GREAT opportunity. Petrified needs a little guidance from Chris and Mary on how to shine.

Deflated in Dallas gave—what they thought—was a great presentation, only to discover that a few people were trash-talking them. They worked hard on this presentation and now they are completely deflated. WTF?

Need Help with Hybrid in Hotlanta is struggling with delivering Hybrid presentations. How do you make hybrid presentations engaging to both in-person and virtual attendees?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Conflict at work can be healthy—if done well. Exploring different viewpoints is essential to innovation, progress, and problem-solving. In this episode, Mary and Chris challenge each other to take completely opposite answers to listeners’ questions. It’s time to rumble.

Tune in to decide whose answers are best to:

Torn in Toronto has a colleague who is just plain rude, snarky, and snippy. They’re tired of being nice and only getting the cold shoulder. Should they tell him how they feel and see if he changes, or should they just return the rude behavior in kind?

The Goose is Loose in Vermont is struggling with a boss who is never prepared for meetings. The boss rambles on and never follows up on action items. What should they do?

A Bird in the Hand in Chicago is torn between staying in her current job or taking an offer that pays more money—but may not be as secure. Should she take the risky—but more high-paying job or stay where she is?

On the Rocks in Rochester has noticed that a regional VP comes to work with alcohol on his breath. Should they say something to him? Should they rat him out?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Culture—both organizational and national-- has a huge influence over how people behave and operate in organizations. In this episode, Mary and Chris answer questions related to navigating cultural differences.

Tune in to hear their answers to:

Looking for a Little Dutch Comfort in Charlotte supervises an employee who is just too direct, too brusque, and well too off-putting.

ABC-ing in LA is struggling with the cutthroat culture of their financial services firm. What can they do?

Every Day is a Bad Hair Day in Baltimore works for a hair salon that has a physical look that is sleek, elegant, and upscale. But, on the inside, the behavior is, well, a bit crude. How can she create an internal culture that matches the external edifice?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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What’s the difference between being cheap, stingy, or frugal? And when is it a problem at work? How do you deal with In this week’s episode, Mary Abbajay and Chris De Santis hear from three listeners who are trying to navigate the financial failings of others.

And as a special treat, they also field a question about an employee’s dirty bathroom habits. Yes, Mary and Chris are going to talk about poop...

Tune in to hear their answers to:

My Boss is a Cheapskate in Chesapeake is embarrassed and a bit horrified at their boss’ cheapness. The boss is a skinflint when it comes to tipping and it’s driving her crazy. Should she call her boss out on this reprehensible behavior?

Bathroom Bandit in Bellevue has an employee with gross bathroom habits. How does one even go about addressing this issue? Help!

I’m Poor Not Cheap in Portland is an entry-level employee who enjoys happy hour with his more senior colleagues, but he can’t afford their champagne tastes on his beer budget. How can he keep the camaraderie and still be able to pay off his student loans?

Pilfered in Poughkeepsie has a business partner that constantly pilfers office supplies like toilet paper, napkins, post-it notes, cleaning supplies—you name it. And they do it in front of employees—which clearly can’t be sending a good message. Are they overreacting or is this a problem?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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What’s your comfort level with personal disclosure at work? Do you lean more private or more public? Is sharing caring? Or is sharing TMI? When does a lack of sharing become a problem and when is oversharing, well, just too much? In this week’s episode, Mary Abbajay and Chris De Santis answer listeners’ questions about how to navigate the private-public continuum.

There’s a fine line between transparency—which can build trust—and oversharing which can diminish trust.

Close the Open Book in Chelsea has an employee who clearly overshares. This employee feels the need to bring everyone up to speed on his private life – including clients. He shares his opinions, his family dramas, his personal struggles, his health issues, you name it, there are no boundaries and no limitations on what or to whom he shares. What can the manager do to curb this employee’s TMI tendencies?

All’s Quiet on the Home Front in Raleigh is struggling to get noticed by her design firm colleagues. Her boss tells her that in order to get better projects, she needs to make herself “known” to others at the firm. As a self-described introvert—how can this listener begin building better relationships and letting others get to know her?

You Can Take Me Out of Iowa, but Can You Take the Iowa Out of Me just got her dream job at a fancy New York City advertising agency. While she is thrilled and excited, she can’t help but feel that being a “country-come-to-town” girl might not be the best image. How does she make a good impression while still being authentic?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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This week’s episode is about complaints and complainers. While complaining is a natural part of human communication—knowing how and when to complain is an important piece of emotional intelligence. Our pro tip: Inside of every complaint is a request. Find it and make it.

Dealing with the complaints of others can be challenging. Learning how to de-escalate an angry tirade is a skill everybody needs…

In this episode we hear from:

Gushing till I Puke in Galena works with a colleague whose constant over-the-top peppiness is driving them to drink. Is there a way to get this colleague to tone it down or turn it off?

Hung Up in Clifton hung up on an angry and complaining VIP customer. And she did it on purpose. So now, she is panicked that he will find out that was her. What should she do? Should confess her sin or wait to see if the angry VIP retaliates?

Duped-licated in Denver owns a print show and one of their clients has a particular employee that always complains about his orders. On top of the constant complaining, this person always seeks substantial discounts. How do they handle a chronic complainer and still stay in good graces with the larger client?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us at: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this year’s special holiday episode, Mary and Chris help listeners navigate the Ho Ho Horrors of office life during the holidays.

Should you attend the office holiday party? Should you bring an unwilling spouse with you? Should you buy your boss a gift? If so, how much should you spend?

In this episode we hear from:

Scrooged in Seattle has a husband who is grumbling about attending her law firm’s holiday party. Should she make him suck it up and go anyway? Or will his grumpy attitude be more of a liability? 

Confounded by Christmas in Connecticut needs help with the etiquette of holiday gift giving at the office. Should they buy their boss a gift? If so, what is appropriate and how much should they spend?

To Give or Not to Give in Glendale seeks advice on appropriate corporate gifts. Are fruit baskets too old school?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Happy Holidays to all! Thanks for tuning in this year!

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Do you have to attend meetings that suck? If so, you are not alone. Businesses and organizations in the U.S. hold 11 MILLION meetings a day and 55 MILLION each week. Yet, research shows that over 50% of the time spent in meetings is considered wasted or unproductive by the attendees. An estimated $37B a year is lost due to unproductive meetings. In this week’s episode, Mary & Chris use their combined 40 years of experience as professional facilitators to answer listeners’ questions about how to create productive and positive meetings.

In this episode we hear from:

First Time Facilitator in Fremont has been tasked with leading her team’s meeting and seeks some advice to make them more effective and interesting.

Seeking Consensus in Connecticut must lead meetings with people who incessantly argue during meetings. The participants in her meetings tend to be very spirited (read argumentative) and a bit intransigent in their opinions. All too often, her meetings devolve into a standoff of opinions. How can she facilitate this conflict into productive conversations?

Care to Join Us in California is frustrated by team members who consistently “check out” during meetings. What can they do to get people more engaged in their meetings?

Need tips to run a better meeting? Email us to receive a free copy of “Make Your Meetings Matter: 12 Essential Building Blocks to Effective Meetings”

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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This week’s episode features three questions from listeners who are trying to get ahead in their lives or careers. They all seek strategies to find the best path forward. So, whether you want to get ahead, move ahead, or make more money—this episode is for you!

In this episode we hear from:

Getting Ahead in Georgia needs advice on how to get ahead in her career. While she has had career growth conversations with her boss—nothing has happened. She’s starting to wonder whether it’s time to look for greener pastures or if she needs to be assertive with her ambitions…

Stumped in St. Louis is a communications manager for a small accounting firm. The firm’s founder is retiring, and they are curious about the best way to notify clients. Specifically, should the announcement come from the founder or the new managing partner? Also, should they announce it via a formal snail mail letter or an email?

Need More Money in Montclair loves her job, but she needs a big raise. And we’re talking a BIG one. She’s got two kids about to go to college and a husband whose salary prospects are more limited than hers. What is the best way to approach her boss?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this week’s episode, Chris has culled a series of listeners’ questions into a mystery theme to see if Mary can guess the theme of the show. What do all these questions have in common? Can Mary guess the theme? Can you?

Play along with us and see if you can guess the theme before Mary does…

In this episode we hear from:

Writer’s Blocked in LA who is frustrated by his writers’ group who keep criticizing his “perfect” ideas? How dare those other writers question his genius?!

A Pretty Ugly Situation in New York is an HR recruiter for urgent care centers and is frustrated that her hiring recommendation wasn’t accepted. How dare the head doctor disregard her advice?!

Please Shut Your Piehole in Hoboken is sick and tired of this “entitled” younger generation who always seems to be asking for promotions, raises, and special treatment. How dare these whippersnappers advocate for themselves?!

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this episode, Chris and Mary share listeners’ thoughts and LinkedIn poll results on various workplace and career topics. Check out this episode to learn what you and other listeners think about office hookups, first impressions, networking etiquette, limp handshakes, and other topics!

Show us your love! Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Workplace stress appears to be at an all-time high. 55% of Americans report being stressed throughout the day and one million Americans miss work each day because of their stress levels. Working women report higher levels of stress than men and the Millennials and Generation Z reported the highest levels of stress—and the most difficulty in managing their stress.

So, it’s no wonder that Chris and Mary receive lots of listener questions on how to manage and navigate workplace stress. In this episode we hear from:

Running on Empty in Edina who needs some tips to manage an overwhelming workload…

Time is Not on My Side in Cincinnati seeks advice on better time management…

It’s Not My Fault in Fairfield is doing the work of two people and wants to know how to defend herself when her boss complains that she takes too long to complete projects…WTF?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Do you have a fear of missing out (FOMO)? Do you have career regrets? Do you feel envious when your friends succeed? In this episode, Mary and Chris answer listeners’ questions about FOMO (fear of missing out), career envy,  regret, and one hot mess for cleanup.

Rethinking My Life in Minneapolis is green with envy over a friend’s success. Her FOMO is causing her to rethink her entire life. How can she get past this to find her dream job?

Not Good at Doing Good in Dallas manages philanthropy for an investment bank. She loves being able to support so many great causes and non-profits but feels tremendous guilt for all the organizations that she can’t help. How can she get past this guilt?

S*t or Get Off the Pot in Portland has a boss that wants to do everything but won’t decide anything. She is completely disorganized and is incapable of prioritizing. In short, the boss is a hot mess. What can she do to help her boss get her s*t together?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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This week’s show is all about sticky situations at work. Mary and Chris try to help listeners navigate some tough “between a rock and a hard place” types of workplace dilemmas.

Help Me Say No in Nebraska has been asked to recommend a friend for a job. The problem? Our listener doesn’t think his friend is qualified for the job and doesn’t know how to handle it…

Not Your Secretary in San Antonio is an office manager at a mid-sized accounting firm where one of the senior partners keeps tasking her with his personal and administrative assistant chores. He refuses to hire an executive assistant and thinks she should be able to take on this extra role. How can she push back without losing her job?

Can’t Take My Husband Anywhere took her husband to a company event where he promptly got into a heated argument with—you guessed it—her boss. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In honor of Halloween, this show is all about scary people at work! And a little bit about Halloween….

Ghost Hunting in Georgia is plagued by a ghost boss who is never around. He assigns them projects, and then, poof! He disappears. How can she succeed with a boss that is NEVER around?

Stop the Heckling in Houston has a colleague who is a passive-aggressive heckler. Houston is sick and tired of being heckled and wants to know how to shut this guy up. 

Tired of the Bully-Sht in Buffalo* works with a bully. He screams, he shouts, and he intimidates. In fact, they call him The Intimidator. Even the boss cowers in his presence. How can he stand up to the bully and rebalance the power dynamic?

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Life and death at work is life and death in life. Yet, all too often the workplace doesn’t address the reality of the human experience. This week’s episode addresses several questions that arise from the circle of life.

Silently Saddened in Oklahoma is saddened by the sudden death of one of her co-workers. Nobody at the company seems to want to talk about or acknowledge it. Is there something that she can do to honor the deceased colleague?

Paying it Forward in Eau Claire wants to donate a kidney to his boss. His colleagues tell him that would make him the biggest suck-up in the world. And beyond that, is this even a good idea?

Stark Stork Choices in Sarasota is expecting a baby! He wants to take his company-sponsored three-month paternity leave. The problem? His boss and his male co-workers are giving him sh*t about his choice. His boss says that this will impact his career trajectory and his bro colleagues are mocking him. What should he do?

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Travel today sucks. And sadly, so do many of our fellow travelers. In this episode, Mary and Chris share their favorite travel tips, biggest pet peeves, and also make time to answer listeners’ questions about how to have an expeditious and stress-free experience on the road.

But the big question is this: do you recline your seat when you fly?

Missing Miss Manners in Memphis wants to know how best to handle rude seatmates or other passengers who are loud, rude, or encroaching into her space.

Down on the Farm in Nebraska has to take a long business trip—which includes two five-hour car rides--with their boss to the middle of nowhere. She is not looking forward to it and wants advice as to how to make the best of this ordeal.

Can’t Beat a Meet and Greet in Indianapolis wants to bring his team together for a team-building event. This will be the first time in two years that they will be together in person. The problem? A few of his team are balking at having to go and they want to attend virtually. Should he bring them in kicking and screaming or let them be virtual?

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Is Quiet Quitting a real thing? And what does it really mean? Is it a call to action or just an excuse to be a slacker? Is it media hype and should organizations be concerned? In this episode, Mary and Chris attempt to separate hype from reality.

I Call Bulls*t in Baltimore* thinks “quiet quitting” is just an excuse to be a slacker. Is he right? 

Man In the Middle in Milwaukee worries that his company’s fears about quiet quitting is driving their decision to begin using digital tracking software to monitor their remote and hybrid employees. Is spying on their employees actually the best way to get (and keep) them engaged? (Answer hint: NO!)

Time to Grow Up in Galveston is frustrated with their Gen Z colleagues whose not-so-quiet-quitting means a bigger workload for them. How do they deal with a generation of workers who expect the payoffs without putting in the time? Should they set these young-uns straight? Or are they the suckers, here?  

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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This week’s episode is all about promotions. Or, rather, when good promotions go bad. We call this “Promotion Demotion.” What if you don’t want to be promoted? Or if you do get promoted and then realize, that “yikes!” it isn’t the gravy train that you thought it would be? Or, if someone gets promoted that you don’t think deserves it. What to do? What to do?

Too Much Too Soon in Trenton got what they asked for—a promotion! And now they have cold feet. Suddenly they must manage their former peers—and nobody has taught them how to be a manager. Congratulations and condolences are in order. And some advice.

I Prefer to Stay Put in Buckhead was just handed an automatic promotion. The problem? They don’t feel ready. They fear that this promotion is well, too much—too soon. They fear that this promotion will only set them up for failure. What should they do?

It’s Not What you Know, It’s Whom You Know is Chicago is bitter that someone with less technical expertise (than them) got promoted to manager. They are convinced that the promotion is only based on their “relationship” with the big boss. Mary & Chris talk them off the ledge.

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Authenticity is a huge buzzword in today’s workplace. Leaders are encouraged to be more authentic by being more vulnerable and transparent. Employees want to be able to bring their full true selves to work. But what does it really mean to be authentic? According to Webster's, Authenticity is about “being true to one’s own spirit or character.” But does that mean that we are the exact same person in every situation? How much authenticity is too much? What if being authentic feels risky? In this episode, Mary and Chris tackle what it means to be true to yourself at work.

Sunshine and Lollipops in Your Dreams is frustrated by their phony, two-faced boss. The boss is a jerk to his employees. But when the boss’ boss is around, the phony jerk turns into sudden sweetness and light. Is there any way they can “out” the inauthentic boss?

Who am I to Judge loves his job at a religious charitable organization. The problem? He’s afraid to let his co-workers know that he is gay. How can he be authentic when he is hiding a major aspect of who he is? He feels like a fraud. How can he reconcile working there and still being true to himself?

Free to Me in Denver fears she can’t be her authentic self when she returns to the physical office. Not only is she the only woman in a team of male engineers, but she also is the only Asian American. Working from home was comfortable since she didn’t have to think about these differences—so how does she bring her full self to work when she worries she will be judged for being different?

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Published: Sep. 21, 2022 @12AM Edit

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Authenticity is a huge buzzword in today’s workplace. Leaders are encouraged to be more authentic by being more vulnerable and transparent. Employees want to be able to bring their full true selves to work. But what does it really mean to be authentic? According to Webster's, Authenticity is about “being true to one’s own spirit or character.” But does that mean that we are the exact same person in every situation? How much authenticity is too much? What if being authentic feels risky? In this episode, Mary and Chris tackle what it means to be true to yourself at work.

Sunshine and Lollipops in Your Dreams is frustrated by their phony, two-faced boss. The boss is a jerk to his employees. But when the boss’ boss is around, the phony jerk turns into sudden sweetness and light. Is there any way they can “out” the inauthentic boss?

Who am I to Judge loves his job at a religious charitable organization. The problem? He’s afraid to let his co-workers know that he is gay. How can he be authentic when he is hiding a major aspect of who he is? He feels like a fraud. How can he reconcile working there and still being true to himself?

Free to Me in Denver fears she can’t be her authentic self when she returns to the physical office. Not only is she the only woman in a team of male engineers, but she also is the only Asian American. Working from home was comfortable since she didn’t have to think about these differences—so how does she bring her full self to work when she worries she will be judged for being different?

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Let’s be honest—sometimes other people are just a pain in the a**. In this week’s show, Mary and Chris address a myriad of listeners’ challenges in navigating difficult colleagues and situations. 

Feeling Like a Highschooler in Scottsdale is being iced out by her colleagues. They treat her like an outcast. Is there any way she can turn this situation around? Should she tell her supervisor? Confront the mean girls? Or just call it a day?

Happy to See You in Hoboken is trying to convince her colleagues that hiring for culture fit is just as important as hiring for skills. How does she make her case and change their minds?

Serenity Now in Santa Ana has a business partner (who is also her husband) who barrages her all day long with texts. How can she get him to stop or at least organize them into a semblance of a to-do list? 

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Tell Me More…

Listeners write in to learn more about topics such as self-promotion, managing up, and the merits of a four-day work week. 

Bewildered in Boulder disagreed with our recommendation to include a professional headshot-type photo in one’s LinkedIn profile. She thinks that including a photo just opens one up to wants to bias and judgment. Mary and Chris stand by their recommendation—and more importantly, they explain their reasoning... 

Two Heads Are NOT Better than One in Omaha has two bosses who are opposites. How does one navigate managing up to two different bosses? Can they just ignore the one that they dislike? Or does she just need to suck it up?

Fingers Crossed in Philly is hoping that the “four-day” work week takes hold here in America. Is this a pipe dream or is he just smoking the pipe? Chris and Mary discuss the pros and cons of the four-day workweek and the likelihood of it becoming the norm in American businesses…

Show us your love. Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. 

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Setting Boundaries

What does it mean to set boundaries in our professional and/or personal lives? Are boundaries rules for others or rules for you? How do you even begin to know what your boundaries are? In this spirited discussion, Chris and Mary help listeners learn how to determine and set boundaries. Even in difficult situations….

Making it Happen in Michigan is starting a new job—how does she begin to set boundaries with her new boss and team? 

Working for a Workaholic in Washington has a boss that is, well, a workaholic. How does he keep his career on the upswing without burning out? His friends tell him to set his boundaries, but he doesn’t even know where to start…

Sort of Hating My Husband in Hawaii is challenged by her business partner husband who never turns work off. How does she set work boundaries while maintaining happy marital relations?

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The ability to engage in “healthy” conflict at work is essential for promoting and encouraging diverse viewpoints. But how much conflict is too much? And what if your team doesn’t ever disagree with each other? Is that just as bad? In this episode, Chris De Santis and Mary Abbajay tackle listeners' questions about how to disagree without being disagreeable…

Put a Lid on It in New Hampshire has an employee who likes to argue about everything with everyone. His constant contentiousness and criticisms are driving his boss and his coworkers crazy. What can be done? How should his manager approach this situation?

Spine Free Zone in Manhattan has the opposite problem. She finds herself leading a team of “yes-men” and it is driving her crazy. She wants her team to engage in more healthy debate—so how does she get them to see the value of sharing different viewpoints?

Six to One Odds in Kansas City is one of six partners in a law firm. She has been tasked to lead the firm in its ESG efforts. The problem? She is the sole black woman in a sea of white male partners who are resisting all her ideas. How can she get them to stop arguing with her and start supporting her?

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Research repeatedly shows that having friends at work can boost employee engagement, productivity, and happiness. In a recent study, most people say having a best friend at work makes work more enjoyable.

We see coworkers nearly every day, collaborate with them on important projects, maybe even share inside jokes about our boss—but do we consider these people friends? Should we? In this episode, Mary & Chris answer listeners’ questions about navigating workplace friendships.

Alone But Not Lonely in Louisiana wonders why she needs to have work friends. She’d much rather stay in her remote cocoon rather than mingle with people in the office. Are there benefits to making friends at work?

What Would Chandler Do…has just been promoted. He is now the boss of his friends. The problem? He wants to keep his friendships intact and doesn’t know how to navigate being their manager and their friend.

Out of the Closet and into the Frying Pan has a crush on a same sex coworker. Should she make a move? She doesn’t know her coworker’s sexual orientation or if this coworker knows hers. How should she proceed? Or should she?

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Are you using common words and phrases that are now considered socially inappropriate? Culturally appropriated or insensitive? Derogatory? Overly gendered? Non-inclusive? Or just annoying and overused? If so, you are not alone. In this episode, Mary and Chris explore words and phrases that are now deemed problematic.

We’d love to tell you what they are, but we don’t want to get in trouble with the language police, so you’ll have to listen to learn what is acceptable and what isn’t in today’s enlightened and more inclusive world. Don’t say that we didn’t warn you.

And just for the record, we’ll miss some of these expressions!

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Check out the University of Washington’s Guide to Inclusive Language: https://itconnect.uw.edu/work/inclusive-language-guide/

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Advice is cheap. And sometimes bad. In this episode, Mary and Chris try to help listeners sort through good advice and bad advice. And one listener writes back to take us to task about our advice!

Damned if You Do in Dubuquetook advice from a mentor that backfired. The problem? The male advice giver didn’t consider how his advice to his female protege would play into a gender-biased workplace. While his advice may have worked well for a man, for a woman, not so much.

Their Way or The Highway writes back to tell us that we gave bad advice. And by we, he means Chris. So, what does he do now? And how much can Mary gloat that he wishes had taken her advice instead of Chris'?

Taking a Pass on Passion in Lincolnis a recent college graduate who wants to know if the advice to just “follow your passion” is good career advice. Mary and Chris call bullst. Can we please** stop telling young people that all they need to do to succeed is “do what you love, and the money will follow”?

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This week’s show is all about recognition, praise, and appreciation. Or rather, when recognition and praise go astray. Have you ever given a gift that was misinterpreted? Or have a piece of praise misfire? Tune in to learn strategies to align your recognition strategies to those being recognized!

Yay For Me in Detroitwants to know if it is okay to nominate oneself for an award? Or should she just hope that someone else does it for her....

Treats Not the Trick in Topekagave an employee a gift that backfired. Instead of being appreciated, the recipient was offended by the gift. Deeply offended. How should they manage the situation? Do they buy a new gift or just let it go.

Sneers of Service in Raleigh thinks giving awards for years of service is just about the stupidest thing ever. How does he get his company to find a better way to recognize good work?

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How honest are you? While you might like to think you’re an honest person, statistically speaking we are all liars. Researchers estimate the average person lies a minimum of once to twice per day. But when do those little “white lies” become problematic? In this week’s episode, Chris and Mary explore listeners’ concerns about lying, cheating, and stealing at work!

Mum’s the Word in Marylandsuspects that one of their employees is handing in fake expense receipts. The problem? The employee in question happens to be the granddaughter of the owner. Yikes! 

Thinking Fast to Go Slowis a data entry contractor who has decided to work more slowly in order to make more money. Should he bring others into his scheme? Or is he about to get hoisted by his own petard…

Been There, Done That in Tampa is a marketing consultant who wonders if he can plagiarize his own work—in other words, can he provide the same strategies to multiple clients in the same industry? Is this cheating?

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While there may be nothing constant in this world, except change—it doesn’t mean that organizations are good at creating change. In fact, research shows that organizational leaders are getting worse at implanting successful change and not better. So where does that leave those of us who must navigate change and transition in the workplace? 

Flummoxed in Philadelphia is a new manager who has been tasked with “cleaning up” the culture of their department. Is it possible to change the culture? Is so, where does one begin?

Can’t Take the Complaining in Kansas City is sick and tired of their team complaining about recent changes to their workplace. The team said that they wanted more flexibility, but now they are complaining about the result. What gives?

Cope-less in Cleveland is exhausted by all the constant changes at her workplace. What can she do to become more resilient? 

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This episode marks the first anniversary of Cubicle Confidential! So, in honor of this celebratory “podiversay” event, Mary & Chris answer listeners’ questions about—you guessed it—partnerships!

Am I Being Cheesy or Whiny in Washington wants to know if it is a good idea to open a wine and cheese shop with their best friend? Is this a good idea or recipe for disaster?

Until D&I do We Part in Pittsburghhas learned that their consulting business partner is cheating on them. And by cheating, we mean that their partner is doing side work for their clients and not putting the money into the partnership. WTF? Should they break up, if so, how?

Stuck on You in Stanton wants to start a podcast with their partner—their romantic partner—and wants some advice on creating a successful podcast partnership. Mary and Chris are only too happy to help! 

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How susceptible are you to clickbait? Are you a sucker for catchy headlines? In this special episode, Chris DeSantis quizzes Mary on real and fake headlines.

Tune in and play along!

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How important is the opinion of others? Do you care what other people think of you at work? Should you? What is the balance between caring and not caring? In this episode, Mary and Chris take a deep dive with listeners who are struggling with what others think of them…

Baby Faced in Baltimore is a seasoned professional who looks way younger than they are and thus people don’t give her the respect she is due. People assume she is too young to know what she is doing. It’s a nice problem to have, but still a problem.

Is the Gift of Gab Really a Gift in Gaithersburg worries that their extroversion may be repelling their quieter colleagues. How do they modulate to connect but not repulse…

It’s Not Me, It’s You in Utica is not seen as a team player. They’ve been called bossy and opinionated. Does it matter? If it does, what can they do?

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Have you ever left a job for a shiny new one, only to discover, that--oops--it was a bad fit? Have you ever been tempted to double-dip on jobs? Or have you ever hired someone and uh-oh it may have been a mistake? If so, this episode tackles these pesky job-hopping dilemmas!

Miss Match in Michigan is concerned that a new hire doesn’t have what it takes to succeed in their role. So, Miss Match wonders if they should continue to give this person a shot, or just call it a day. Our question to Miss Match is—did you hire a bad fit or did you do a bad job helping this person fit in?

Buyer’s Remorse in Racine fears she has made a big mistake. After 10 years of working for a large (and stable) organization, she took a new job and discovered that she hates it. The new company has a toxic culture, and the leadership is, well, just plain awful. She’s only been in the job for 6 months—is it too soon to quit? And how should she position this sudden departure to new prospective employers?

This Bytes in Brooklyn wants to moonlight on their current company. The problem? It’s with a competing tech company. How bad of an idea is this? Uh, probably pretty bad….

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Ghosts, Wimps, and Implusives, oh my! Have you ever dealt with a boss or colleague who ghosts you? Or a boss who is so wishy-washy that you want to pull your hair out? Or how about the boss or co-worker who is always changing their minds or chasing shiny objects? If so, this episode was made for you. Chris and Mary hear from listeners who need their help dealing with these difficult dynamics.

Ghosted in Galveston is frustrated by her ghost boss. He’s never around when she needs him, and it is beginning to impact her ability to succeed. Does she need a ghostbuster or ghost chaser?

Seeking Serenity in Salt Lake City is exhausted by her impulsive, scattered-brained boss. The chaos, madness, and constant shifting of priorities are driving her crazy. What can she do?

My Boss is a Wimp in Wisconsin wants to know how to transplant a backbone into their boss who can’t seem to make a decision to save their life. And even when they do decide on something, they are easily swayed to change it. How do they get their boss to “pick and stick”?

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Recommended Book: Managing Up, How to Move Up, Win at Work, and Succeed with Any Type of Boss

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Despite tremendous gains made by women in the workforce, women still face many structural and personal barriers to success—especially in leadership roles. In this episode, Mary and Chris hear from several female listeners who are struggling with gender and leadership issues and expectations.

Raising the Roof in Tulsa is up for promotion to District Manager. She is also the only woman at the management level. Even though her district outperforms her peers, her boss told her she needs to make a more “compelling case” to win the promotion. WTF???

Woman on the Verge in Virginia is tired of being the only woman in the C-suite. She is tired of having to represent the views of all the women and she can’t bear to attend another retreat golf outing. Plus, the wives of the other executives are mean to her. Is it time to throw in the towel?

Snow Flakes in Florida has no interest in mentoring or coaching the younger women in her company. She finds them entitled and dismissive. She worked her ass off to succeed and thinks they should just toughen up. Is she justified in her attitude or is she going to hell?

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Let’s be honest. The workplace can be very ageist. Very ageist. Being seen as “too young” or “too old” can stymie your career. How do you manage perceptions that you are “over” qualified or that you don’t have enough experience based on your age? In this episode, Mary and Chris provide advice to listeners who are dealing with ageist perceptions and perspectives.

Gambling with My Future in Vegas keeps being told that they are “overqualified” for jobs. How do they neutralize this perception?

Big in Bedford Heights is NOT happy that her new manager is 30 years her junior. How can she possibly work for a “child”? Does she need a new job or a new attitude?

High Rise Hi Jinx doesn’t think a young employee is cut out for the job. Does he fish or cut bait? How much time (and effort) does he owe this young employee?

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After two years of wearing our dress shirts with pajama bottoms, it’s time to dress up for work again. Which for many of us, means the reappearance of the fashion crisis. Just exactly what does “business casual” really mean?  And can I still wear my yoga pants to work?

In this week’s show, Chris De Santis and Mary Abbajay help listeners navigate the new rules of office dress-up. Hint: the days of mullet dressing are over…

Dapper in Delaware wonders if he is just a bit too well dressed for the office. Should he tone it down a bit?

Dis-Dressed in Silicon Valley hates the bro-culture hoodie look in Silicon Valley. Does dressing like a teenager equal “business casual?”

Well Suited in Syracuse thinks his people are dressed too casually for the office. Is it time to institute a dress code?

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Does anyone enjoy having to give or receive difficult or “constructive” feedback? Hearing that you are not hitting the mark is never fun. Nor is it enjoyable to be the person who must burst the bubble. Yet, without feedback, it’s hard to know how to adjust one’s performance and behavior. This week’s episode addresses listeners' challenges with giving or receiving feedback.

Not Dressed for Success in Sausalito wants to know how to tell their employees that their professional attire is, well, not professional. How does he tell them to improve their appearance?

Out of Options in Ontario is frustrated with an employee who simply ignores constructive feedback. How can they get this person to get with the program?

I Need More in Madison wants to know how to give feedback to her boss who is simply terrible at communicating. What is the protocol for giving upwards feedback (without getting fired)?

Fears the Tears in Tampa has an employee who utterly implodes with even the slightest criticism. Every time they even give the slightest constructive feedback this employee has a complete meltdown. What gives?

Give us some feedback! Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Good or bad--we want to hear from you.

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Our favorite books and resources on feedback:

Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well, by Sheila Heen & Douglas Stone

Fierce Conversations Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time, by Susan Scott

How to Say Anything to Anyone: A Guide to Building Business Relationships That Really Work, by Shari Harley

Radical Candor: How to Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity, by Kim Scott

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Apparently, not everyone is excited to return to the physical office. This week’s episode hears from listeners who are less than thrilled at the prospect of going back to the office.

The Party’s Over in Pensacola does NOT want to go back to the physical office.  In fact, they dread it. How can they convince their employer to let them stay remote?

Boston Yank in Spanx gained a lot of weight during the pandemic, and now he fears being the subject of ridicule and mockery when he returns. How can he prepare for the teasing to come?

Betwixt a Rock and a Hard Place in Batavia is furious that her team is being asked to work full-time in the physical office while other teams are being allowed to retain remote flexibility and options. Should we fight for her team?

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All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Do generational differences at work have you perplexed? Annoyed? Confused? Do you look at other generations at work and think to yourself WTF?

Well, Chris De Santis is here to help! In honor of his newly published book Why I Find You Irritating: Navigating Generational Friction at Work, Chris and Mary answer questions from multiple generations about how to deal with each other.

Ants in My Pants in Ann Arbor wants to turn down a promotion in order to travel the world. After 4 years in the workforce, they feel they need a break. WTF?

My Way or the Highway in Hawaii is frustrated that their young employees don’t want to come into a physical office. Yet, they complain that they don’t feel “connected” to the firm. WTF?

He Who Has Had It with Them in Everywhere USA doesn’t know what to make of the focus on pronouns. After 30 years of work experience, he is having trouble making sense of this “pronoun thing.” WTF?

PS: Chris De Santis is giving away free books to anyone who sends in a question. Email us at: info@cubicleconfidential and get your free book.

PPS: Mary says that Gen X is really the greatest generation ever!!!!

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How important is having a personal brand for career success? What’s the difference between your brand and your reputation? How do you know if your brand is working for you? What letter comes after X in the alphabet? Chris and Mary lay out the do’s and don’ts of creating an effective personal brand to ensure a positive reputation. 

• Young and Virtual in Vermont wonders how to build a personal brand in an entry-level position?
• Building My Brand in Buffalo is concerned that a polished and professional brand will make him/her/them seem unapproachable…
• Going Social in South Carolina wants help with using social media to build their brand…
• Curious in Connecticut is curious about how one goes about measuring the success of their brand…
• Might Be Misaligned in Michigan is worried that their personal brand is at odds with their current employer…is this a problem?

We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this special episode, Chris and Mary share listeners’ thoughts and LinkedIn poll results on various workplace and career topics. Check out this episode to learn you and other listeners think about Pay Transparency, Introversion and Extroversion, Family Leave, Big Ideas, Workplace Appreciation, Micromanagers, and other topics!

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When it comes to favors, are you a giver or a taker? Do you make it easy for people to say yes to favors? Do you reciprocate? Are you tired of people asking you for favors? If so, this episode is for you. Chris and Mary give out some tough love on the art of asking for and receiving favors. Don’t break your favor bank!

Unimpressed with the Unprepared in L.A. has a big problem with people asking to meet with him to “pick his brain” and then these people show up late and unprepared for the meeting…

No, it’s Not Nice to Meet You in New York is sick and tired of unsolicited introductions. How can they politely decline these requests? Can they tell people that they don’t have time for meaningless meetings?

Overdrawn in Ohio is frustrated with a colleague who never reciprocates favors. Can she start saying “no” to this colleague who has clearly overdrawn her favor bank?

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How do you annoy me? Let me count the ways! In this episode, Mary and Chris address listeners’ complaints about their annoying co-workers. When dealing with bothersome behaviors in others, should we speak up, shut up, or suck it up?

Pompous Panelist in Pasadena wants to know how to deal with a fellow panelist who is obnoxious, pompous, and overly self-promoting.  Should they say something? How can they hold their own with an air hog?

Should I Say Something in St. Louis can’t help but notice that her husband is well, a jerk, when talking to his colleagues. Should she say something? Or let him go on being a jerk….

Stop Drooling on Me in Dallas works in a pet-friendly workplace. The problem? One of the pets is too friendly. Should they say something?

Tired of the Baby Talk in Toledo can’t take a single more conversation about a co-worker's brand new grandchild. If she has to look at one more picture of that kid, she may poke her own eyes out. Should she say something?

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Have you ever lost your mojo? Has two years of remote work left you feeling unmotivated and unconnected? Are you trying to get back in the groove? If so, you are not alone! This week’s episode answers listeners’ questions about how to get and stay motivated. In other words, how to get your groove back.

Rudderless in Raleigh has lost her mojo. Is it her? Is it her Job? Or is it just this &#$#@ never-ending pandemic?

Just Plain Stumped in Jackson manages a remote team that seems to be out of juice. How can he get his team remotivated?

Generous to Fault in Philly is frustrated with their team. They were given big bonuses, yet the staff is still grumbling and unhappy. Are bonuses effective motivators?  What to do? What to do?

Check out Chris DeSantis' special offer for our listeners at the end of the show! 

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Workplace friendships are the topic of this week’s show. The workplace is a social system--but does that mean that we HAVE to be friends with the people we work with? How much friendship is too much friendship? How much friendliness is too little? Is it okay to be best friends with your boss? Mary and Chris help both the friendless and overly friendly navigate this tricky landscape.

Friendless and Fabulous in Fremont doesn’t want to be friends with their co-workers. Is it wrong to not pursue workplace friendships? Does it make her a Grinch?

I’m Not Your BFF in Baltimore doesn’t want to be best friends with their boss. How do they free themselves from this friendship?

Why Can’t They Be Friends in Wyoming wonders how to navigate two supervisors whose animosity towards each other is causing office friction and ruining morale. Should they encourage the two supervisors to repair their friendship? What to do, what to do…

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Recommended Article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dont-have-friends-at-work_l_61defa66e4b0ae44b31a40ef?platform=hootsuite

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Are you an idea person or are you an idea implementer? How can you get others to buy into your ideas? In this episode, Mary and Chris offer strategies to get your great ideas heard and implemented!

Bewitched in Boulder loves (his) big ideas. The problem? He doesn’t like to implement them. Is there a way that he can job craft himself out of implementation?

Workplace Newbie in Wisconsin can’t get her “older” managers to buy into her new work ideas. How can she get her ideas “heard” by senior folks?

Siloed in Secaucus has a great idea for another department. Is there a way that they can pass on this idea without overstepping their role?

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Recommended Books:
Blue Ocean Strategy, by W. Chan Kim
Six Thinking Hats, by Edward De Bono

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In this episode, Mary and Chris help introverts and extroverts cross the great divide of communication and collaboration.

Talk to Me in Tallahassee is frustrated by their introverted colleague--who just doesn’t seem to communicate enough.

Need My Space in Needham dreads having to return to the physical workplace because of the dreaded “open space” office plan.

Introverted in Indiana has been told that they must “get over” their introversion to be a good boss. WTF???

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Recommended Books:

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

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Let’s talk about money. 

In this episode, Mary Abbajay & Chris DeSantis discuss why talking about money is so taboo and they answer listeners’ questions about how to get paid. If you want your work to show you the money, then this episode is for you.  

Exhausted in El Paso is frustrated because they are being paid less than their colleagues--how can they get what they are worth? Is this an example of gender pay disparity? 

First Time Raise in Racine asks for advice on how to ask for her first raise! Chris lays it out and tells Racine how to get their boss to show them money!

Tentative About Transparency in Tucson is an HR manager who is tasked with implementing a pay transparency policy at their tech firm. Is this a good idea? How can organizations do pay transparency well? 

Show us your love! Please give us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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It’s hard out there for working parents--especially for working mothers. Mary Abbajay and Chris DeSantis tackle listeners' questions about balancing the duties of parenthood with career goals.

• "Bundle of Nerves" wants to know when the right time is to tell her boss that she is pregnant.
• "Kid Proof" is annoyed that their boss’ kid is constantly derailing team meetings.
• "Mom’s the Word" struggles with the uneven playing field at work between working mothers and working fathers.

Chris DeSantis recommends these books to help working parents:

Unfinished Business: Women Men Work Family by Anne Marie Slaughter

What Works for Women at Work by Joan Williams and Rachel Dempsey.

What Works, Gender Equality by Design by Iris Bonnet

Forget a Mentor, Find a Sponsor by Sylvia Hewlett.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this week’s show, Mary Abbajay and Chris De Santis address listeners’ questions around overblown expectations and dehumanizing work. Flaming Out worries about unrealistic expectations once they return to the physical office. Big Brother is Watching is creeped out by the fact that their employer uses spyware to monitor them. Dumping is Not Delegating is miffed about doing their boss’s work. If you are tired of feeling like a cog, this episode is for you.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this special episode, Cubicle Confidential goes live to answer workplace questions from a bunch of lawyers! The Legal Counsel for Leadership Diversity invited Mary Abbajay & Chris De Santis to provide workplace and career advice to lawyers while playing the “Hybrid” workplace drinking game. What could go wrong?

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries! This week’s episode tackles tricky sensitive situations at work. What to do if…

• You are asked to be a sperm donor for a colleague…
• Your employee leaves you a pamphlet on “gay conversion therapy”…
• Your boss is trying to set you up with their niece…

What to do, what to do, what to do? What would YOU do?

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Have you ever wanted to start your own business? Are you ready to be your own boss? Are you trying to decide whether to go it alone or have a business partner? And, really, is it a bad idea to go into business with a family member? In this episode, Mary and Chris share their combined 56 years of entrepreneurship to answer listeners’ questions about starting their own businesses. 

• Seeking Autonomy in Austin wonders if she’s got what it takes to succeed on her own.
• Pondering Partnership in Pittsburgh is torn about whether to take on a business partner or not.
• Coffee Cousins in California wants to know if going into business with a family member is a good idea or not.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

careeradvice #smallbusiness #Entrepreneurship #businessowners #selfemployed

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Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong? Like you were an outsider looking in? In this episode, Mary and Chris answer questions from listeners who feel rejected or left out.  

A young woman in Milwaukee feels ostracized from her childhood friends after landing an impressive corporate job.

An experienced accounting professional in Durham has to play second fiddle to colleagues who are deemed “high potential” employees. 

And a first-year Associate in Boston finds herself the only person of diverse origins in a very white waspy law firm…

Warning: This episode contains heart, compassion, and humanity. Just saying.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Welcome to Season Two!  In this episode, Chris and Mary tackle questions from listeners who want to improve their career prospects in the New Year. 

“Underutilized in Urbana” wants to know how to regain their favored role and responsibilities after a corporate reorganization. 

“There’s A New Sherriff in Towson” is a new manager and wants to hold his underperforming team accountable. 

“Looking Ahead in Loudon” wants her company to put up or shut up. 

Special offer: The first five people who email or tweet us, receive a free autographed copy of Managing Up: How to Move Up, Win at Work, And Succeed with Any Type of Boss!

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Chris and Mary challenge each other on their knowledge of workplace etiquette. Who will win?

They try to stump each other in areas such as declining requests, business meals, elevator etiquette, office gifts, exchanging business cards, making introductions, and much more! 

It’s the workplace Etiquette Battle Royale. Join us to test and hone your workplace etiquette.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this special episode of Cubicle Confidential Mary Abbajay and Chris De Santis were invited to answer viewers' questions live at the Non-Profit Symposium sponsored by the Greater Washington Society of CPAs.

The audience had questions about creating change, workplace culture, getting promoted, dealing with toxic bosses, and succeeding in a hybrid environment.

You can also view the video for this live event here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rhLBGK44x4&list=PLdzhjBjt3JooXHmnHQ6M4_HQCcmuduZJ9

Enjoy!

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Den Mother in Denver wants to know how to survive a six-week, off-site team engagement without losing her mind. Spare Me in Saratoga is sick of attending office “hell-ebrations” like birthday and gender reveal parties.  And Dawn of the Dead in Detroit has an annoying and cantankerous customer that makes her life miserable. 

Is there a way to deal with annoying customers and colleagues without losing your cool? Mary and Chris say, “yes!” Tune in to hear their strategies on how to handle these pesky people and situations (without killing them or yourself…) 

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Have you ever been the subject of workplace gossip? When, if ever, is it okay to share inside information with colleagues? What if I have information that is too juicy to keep to myself?  In this episode, Chris and Mary give advice on how to identify the difference between idle chit-chat and gossip. They explore strategies to stay on the right side of workplace gossip.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Am I supposed to get my boss a gift? Should I say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?  Should I bring my spouse to the party? Do I have to attend the office party? What if I got drunk at the last office holiday party? 

In this week’s special holiday episode, Mary and Chris help listeners navigate the Ho Ho Horrors of office life during the holidays.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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What is the real deal with generational differences at work? In this episode, Chris and Mary tackle the myths and realities of generational clash points. Listeners have questions about navigating a multi-generational workplace. Boomers vs Millennials. Gen Z wants a voice. Who the hell is Gen X?

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this week’s episode, Mary and Chris help out listeners who are grappling with how to succeed in the “new normal.” A hiring manager in Kansas City wonders how he can compete with bigger national firms who are stealing his talent; A copy editor wants to convince her employer to let her stay remote and; A customer care representative feels lonely and isolated.

If you have workplace dilemmas or career questions, send them to us! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Crafting a satisfying career can be confusing! In this episode, Mary & Chris advise listeners at different career phases. Down and Outfeels like a failure. Empty Nest on a Quest is trying to re-enter the workforce. This, That, or Something Else wants to break into show business.

Send us your workplace or career dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you trying to climb up the corporate food chain? Trying to crack that promotion code? Or are you tired of being passed over for promotions? If so, then this episode is for you!

Mary and Chris answer questions on how to power up your promotion prospects. Hint: Just doing your job isn’t enough…

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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In this episode, Mary and Chris answer questions about mentoring and provide seasoned advice on how to make the most of any mentoring relationship!

An old white guy is intimidated by his younger, hipper, and racially diverse mentee. A young tech professional wants to know how to find a mentor. Both listeners want to know how to make their mentoring experiences successful! 

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Recommended Articles:

Mentoring Matters: Three Essential Elements of Success

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In this episode, Chris and Mary help listeners answer the perennial career dilemma: How do you know when it’s time to grit or time quit that job (or that boss)? 

Wanting it all in Winnipeg wants to know how to grit it out with a toxic boss--until she can get out. Bored in Baton Rouge wants to know if boredom is a good enough reason to quit a job. (Hint, Mary says “yes”, and Chris says “no”). Moving on Up in Minnesota worries about hurting her boss’ feelings and wants to know how to quit without burning bridges. 

A must listen to episode for anyone who wants to quit that job!

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

Recommended articles:
What to do When you Have a Bad Boss

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Mary and Chris tackle questions on dealing with bad bosses. Conflicted on the Crew wants to know if and how he should intervene on a difficult boss. Recovering in Rhode Island needs advice in dealing with a gaslighter. 

Tips abound in this episode for navigating difficult and toxic bosses!

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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How much do first impressions matter during a job interview? Do hiring managers rely too much on gut instinct? What kind of interview questions actually matter? And finally, should you lose that man bun?

Chris and Mary set both hiring managers and job candidates straight on what works and what doesn’t work for a successful job interview.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Is it ever okay to rat someone out at work? What is the difference between being a whistleblower or a tattle tell? When is it appropriate to report the misdeeds of others?  

Chris and Mary tackle questions on when, how, and why to throw that colleague under the bus. 

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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A hiring manager bemoans the lack of passion in candidates. A mother worries about her daughter’s lack of ambition. A recent college graduate questions the pursuit of happiness over the revulsion of the rat race. Mary and Chris answer these questions and more on this week’s episode! 

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Are you comfortable with self-promotion? Can you promote yourself without feeling shame? What’s the difference between confidence and arrogance? How do you self-promote with humility and confidence? What’s the difference between self-promotion and bragging? These tricky questions are front and center in this episode as Chris and Mary help listeners understand the ins and outs of self-promotion. In other words, are you tooting your own horn? And is anyone listening?

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Do you hate networking? Do you feel awkward at networking events? If so, this episode is for you! Chris and Mary answer listeners’ questions about how to work a room, make authentic connections, and avoid common networking etiquette errors.  Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, this episode will help you learn the do’s and don’ts of making a positive impression at your next event.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Presentation skills take center stage as Chris and Mary take questions on how to become better at presenting and public speaking. You asked and we answered!

Pro tips include: overcoming stage fright, connecting with your audience, creating a stage presence, and performing well in a virtual medium. If you want to present with polish and poise--this episode is for you!

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Is your workplace going hybrid? Does it work? In this timely episode, Mary and Chris tackle two questions on how to successfully navigate and manage a hybrid workplace.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Funny or not? What kind of humor is off-limits at work? Should the office comedienne can it?  What to do when good jokes go bad? Mary and Chris tackle these questions and more as they sort out the do's and don'ts of office humor.

And for the record, neither Chris nor Mary think Benny Hill is funny. But Chris likes the Three Stooges. Go figure.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Selling sucks. Mary and Chris bemoan the horrors of cold calling and selling while answering listeners' questions about cold calling and dealing with difficult salespeople.

Chris claims he doesn’t have to sell his services. Mary calls B.S. Despite their differences, they explore strategies to be better at selling. 

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Chris and Mary tackle questions about leading and managing. What is the difference between managers and leaders? Should you promote the brilliant jerk? How do you go from bud to boss? Chris offers brilliant insight and advice on changing behavior and setting expectations. Mary has no tolerance for bosses who lack impulse control.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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To err is human. To mess up at work might put you in the doghouse. Mary and Chris discuss how to recover from mistakes, rebuild your reputation and use your humanity to move on. Chris confesses to a sticky mistake. Mary throws her team under the bus.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Bro culture is under the microscope when Mary and Chris encounter an aspiring employee who has to decide between hanging out with the boys or losing out on a promotion. Mary gives some tough love to a young employee who complains that her boss gave her a bad performance review.

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Have you ever worked closely with a colleague that’s a tad fragrant?  Do you tell them or do you hold your breath for 8 hours? Mary and Chris debate what to do. Meanwhile, when is it okay to tell someone that their face is a problem? 

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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It’s great to work from home but what do you do when your employees show up as slobs? Mary and Chris shed some light on how to present yourself professionally in virtual meetings. And speaking of virtual meetings, how do you keep your colleagues from hogging the spotlight?

Send us your workplace dilemmas! Email us: info@cubicleconfidential.com or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Office romance is front and center in this episode as Mary and Chris give advice on what to do about a two-timing boss.  Meanwhile, what happens when your ex gets the job you wanted? Is it luck or are they sleeping with the boss?

Send us your workplace dilemmas: info@cubicleconfidential.com. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent...

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Chris DeSantis and Mary Abbajay announce the July 7th launch of Cubicle Confidential: Weekly Advice for the Working Stiff.