Ask "Z"

Let them talk about their pay–it’s inevitable

September 27, 2013
Q. I manage highly paid engineers. I also manage support staff who earn minimum wage. The engineers often discuss their ritzy vacations and home remodeling projects. That makes the others jealous. How can I get these “rich folks” to stop bragging?

Show support while imposing standards

September 19, 2013
Q. My employee, Jane, has family in the military. They’re stationed in war zones. Jane’s performance is slipping—she’s just not herself. What can I do?

“Sign this”? Not so fast

September 12, 2013
Q. How do I make sure that any correspondence sent out with my name on it doesn’t come back to bite us?

Rise above soft boss

November 1, 2001
Q. My boss’ standards are way too low. She’s lax and far too accepting of average work—by myself and other managers. I find myself doing just enough to get by. Should I care?