Ask the expert: Managing another's disappointment can provide insights

By Dr MARIE WILSON

I've just been hired into a management position from outside the company and one of my direct reports clearly thinks that he should have been promoted into this job. Apparently he even had a hand in writing the job ad.

Start by finding out what the selection criteria were. This will help you in doing your job, as well as understanding why you were selected.

Discussion with your own supervisor on how you might manage feedback and support to your direct report is the next step. Perhaps you can consult the manager that you have replaced.

Now you're better prepared to discuss it with your disappointed staff member. An open discussion in a relaxed environment is important.

You can initiate discussion by discussing their candidacy and that they may be disappointed not to have been selected.

Try to make few statements, but ask questions about their expectations, their experiences in the selection process (perhaps it was handled badly) and why they think they were not selected.

Focus on what should happen from now on to make both of you satisfied. You will want to perform well in your new role and organisation; they may want increased career development.

* * *

I've been applying for several jobs recently, but haven't landed one. I called up for feedback on why I didn't get the last one, and one of the things mentioned was that my curriculum vitae needed work. What's in a good CV?

Congratulations on seeking feedback. Learning from past experiences is critical to future success. So, now you know that your CV could be improved.

Style differences aside, good CVs present your key abilities and skills in a way that is easy to understand. The most important things appear first.

Highlight your achievements, particularly in recent jobs. Include your people skills as well as technical abilities by showing how they were part of your job.

If you have a diverse background, or are making a change in your career, you may wish to start your CV with a brief statement that puts the rest in context. When you think you've got a good CV together, get several people whose judgment you trust to give you direct, honest feedback.

Above all, make sure it is perfectly spelled, well presented and truthful. Good luck with your job search.

* * *

I have started working for a company where a friend of mine is already employed. However, since I started, in the same department and in a similar professional job, she has never missed a chance to put me down. What can I do about this?

Great friend! This kind of behaviour is usually the result of insecurity or lack of confidence, but that doesn't make it any more tolerable.

First, check your own behaviour. Make sure this isn't defensive action on her part. Second, discuss the matter with her, giving several clear examples.

Still happening? Then you might have to adopt some defensive actions. Tempting as one-upmanship may be, it will make both of you look unprofessional. Treat her comments as you would any legitimate complaint: ask for clarification on specifically what the problem is.

* * *

I'm well aware that the hidden job market - those jobs that aren't advertised but filled from spec CVs or word-of-mouth - is huge. How can I tap into it? Sending out endless CVs and getting nowhere seems so futile.

About two-thirds of jobs are never advertised, but are filled through networks, referrals, internal promotions and, occasionally, a CV on file. Networking may require new skills and habits in terms of attending conferences, seminars, meetings and industry meetings with attention not just to what is discussed, but also to who is there, and then maintaining contacts.

Your colleagues may find out about many jobs without even knowing that you might be interested or suitable. If these are your potential contacts, then keep in contact.

Full CVs may be overwhelming for someone without a current job search on, but a brief, well-written summary of your accomplishments and abilities that appears as part of your regular communication, perhaps every few months, makes it easier to think of you when that opportunity arises.

* * *

I'm thinking about working for myself from home rather than working for a company. What sort of things do I need to think about before making a final decision?

I'll assume that you are looking at doing the same sort of work, but as an independent contractor.

Essentially then, you are thinking about making the transition from working for a business to being one. Being a business owner does require additional skills and knowledge, from marketing and pricing to customer relations, billing and accounts.

You may want to assess your skills and brush up through short courses, professional associations or relevant books.

The first stage is thinking about yourself differently.

The second set of considerations is financial.

Unless you are assured of continuing work from your current employer, or are going to work part-time while you develop your own business, one of the hardest things may be losing a predictable pay cheque.

Are your savings and income enough to carry you through the start-up phases of a venture, particularly if they last longer than expected?

Dr MARIE WILSON is head of management and employment relations at University of Auckland Business School.

If you have a question on issues facing senior management or executives, e-mail Career Editor Julie Middleton