Not Your Boss' Smoking Buddy

Remember how Rachael was sidelined by her colleagues and boss at work?

Anil Sharma, 33, purchase manager, lived through a similar situation.

"My colleagues and boss used to go out drinking on a regular basis (by that I mean every alternate day). I did accompany them twice a week but could go no more than that," he says.

In effect he was left out of the so called group and was conveniently overlooked for suggestions and ideas to key projects.

"Things reached a head when I considered quitting my job because of being sidelined," he concludes.

Varda Pendse Advises: You do not have to be your boss' smoking buddy all the time but make sure that you make appearances for at least a few after office get togethers.

If you are being ignored inspite of your efforts then make sure that you get your ideas in during the day. Let your boss hear you and your ideas out so that she can make an informed decision.

If you still feel sidelined then do talk to your boss and resolve the problem. Be assertive and kind. Remember that no matter what you do not lose your cool.

Also Read: 5 Ways to Market Yourself

Ouch That's a Rocky Road

Chitra Hariharan, 35, Operations Manager was victimised by her boss for doing her job well!

"My boss had a soft corner for another colleague who did not perform as well as I did. So when our appraisals were done by our department head I got a bigger bonus than her and that signalled the beginning of my work hell," says Chitra.

In fact her boss even called her at home on her days off just to tell her that things were not done. Chitra tried changing her department but that did not work.

"I eventually ended up changing my job," says Chitra.

Varda Pendse Advises: There are a few cases like Chitra's that compel people to change jobs. But before you make a change in job make sure that you try talking to your boss and try for a change in departments.

If nothing works then do look out for another job.

When you go through a rough time change the department… first approach your boss for a talk, if the issue gets resolved it's fine, otherwise change the department…

Also Read: Quitting Because of Boss?