ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, January 28, 1996 TAG: 9601260050
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: G2 EDITION: METRO
COLUMN: Working It Out
SOURCE: CAMILLE WRIGHT MILLER
Q: I've been let go from several jobs because I had an "attitude problem." I don't see it, and no one can tell me what I've done wrong.
A: It's difficult "to get people to see themselves as others see them," says Chris Lambruscati, a licensed professional counselor with The Counseling Center in Roanoke. But when you get the same notice from several people, give the message merit. The message is clear: People see you differently than you see yourself.
Success in the work world requires that you be able to both see yourself as others see you and adjust behaviors that cause problems. Problems you think you have may be expressed, to others, as attitude.
You may not understand what others are complaining about, but you may feel frustrated. That's a definite tip you have some problems to deal with.
Lambruscati says other indicators include believing "people don't listen and you're not being heard. Or if you often feel wronged. Or you feel your needs aren't met." There may be many reasons for those feelings, but the result is "attitude."
To see yourself as others do, it's helpful to review what happened prior to the judgment of attitude. Lambruscati says this is walking through the events "step-by-step, asking what happened here, what were the consequences." The results are often "insight into yourself. That's what you strive for."
Lambruscati suggests "really looking at the consequences of your behavior. That's black and white, everyone will agree. The gray area is the why. What could be causing this?''
To understand the "why" may require the help of others.
Lambruscati says that "group counseling with a group of your peers" is often helpful in gaining insight. You evaluate your own actions, often in video playbacks. It's a process that allows you to see yourself as others see you.
Q: I suffered injuries on the job and lost my job. The company is well-known, and no one wanted to take my case. I finally found an attorney, but he missed the first appointment for my hearing. I still believe no one is helping me.
A: There are few attorneys reluctant to sue a company simply because it's a big organization in town. Problems come, instead, with poor communication between attorney and client. Become more active in extending conversations with your attorney to get the answers you need.
Meet with your attorney again. Ask if he's comfortable handling your case. Also ask if, with his current case load, he has adequate time for your case.
If he's uncomfortable with your case or has a heavy load, ask his help in locating another lawyer.
If he assures you he's comfortable and has the time, ask how long the process will take and what you can expect at each stage. Ask how you'll be informed of progress and hearing dates.
It's reasonable to want a fuller understanding. If your attorney hasn't volunteered that information, ask him.
When you are notified of hearing dates, call his office the day before the hearing. Ask his secretary if the hearing is on the calendar. Ask where you should plan to meet your attorney before the hearing - the office or the hearing site.
If you think too much time has elapsed since you've heard from your attorney, call. Ask for a progress report.
Once your case is accepted, your work isn't over. You've formed a partnership that requires you occasionally take the initiative.
Q: You recently advised an employer to eliminate from consideration applicants with gaps in employment showing on their resumes. Due to layoffs and my spouse's transfer, I have such gaps. How should I present my resume when seeking employment?
A: Employers are wary of unexplained gaps on resumes; however, explained gaps are less cause for concern.
Everyone making hiring decisions is aware of the employment downsizing. When those reasons are given for breaks in employment, personnel officers then focus on experience and education.
Open your cover letter in the standard manner, demonstrate your interest in the position and reinforce your qualifications for the position. Then, state the obvious (breaks in employment) and offer a positive explanation. For example, following your explanation highlight the additional skills you gained in jobs following layoffs.
Honesty and front-end explanations overcome caution. That, and a positive attitude, help fill resume gaps.
Camille Wright Miller, an organizational behavior sociologist who works in Lexington, answers questions from our readers about workplace issues. Please send them to her in care of The Roanoke Times, Business News Department, P.O. Box 2491, Roanoke 24010.
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