Ask the expert: Put her in her place, but be tactful when you do

Dr MARIE WILSON is associate professor of management at the University of Auckland, research director of the ICEHOUSE business accelerator and a veteran of 20 years in corporate management and small business.

Q. We've got a pretty relaxed environment at work (advertising). We socialise a lot together, and there's a lot of kidding around and teasing when we are together outside work.

However, I'm finding that one of our 20-something new arrivals is giving me a sort of overly familiar (and sometimes rude) attitude at work that is OK when out for a drink, but not in the office, and I'm finding it really irritating.

I'm not quite sure how to let her know that despite our office being friendly, respect and hierarchies do count at work and she needs to modify her behaviour a bit.


A. Sounds as if you've got the right words, now you just need to find the right opportunity.

There are two ways to approach it: you could wait for the next time she demonstrates this type of behaviour and then immediately take her aside and make your point, and continue to do this whenever it happens, as well as thanking her when she does make her points in a more respectful manner.

The other is to take her out for breakfast or lunch first, and explain your concerns to her and ask her to make a few changes.

You could then follow it up as above, as many people are not particularly aware of when they are doing things that offend others.

Your position will be strengthened, of course, if others feel the same way.

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Q. I migrated to NZ in 1994. I am 54 and hold a PhD in economics.

I was employed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka from 1975-1993 as a senior economist. At the same time, I worked as a visiting lecturer in economics in two universities in Sri Lanka for more than 15 years.

Also, I worked as a senior tutor in economics, Deakin University, Australia (1988-1992).

From 1993 to 2001, I worked as head of economics, PNG University of Technology, in Lae.

My educational qualifications (Britain, Australia and the United States) and my practical experience have made me fully qualified for a position as a lecturer.

I also possess substantial experience in research, economic policy analysis, project planning and monitoring.

I resigned from the PNG job last January and came to Auckland to live with my family.

Recently I applied for a lecturer position in a business school, but was not shortlisted. This is totally unexpected because I strongly feel that this is the right sort of job for me.

What could be the reasons for my failure?

At the moment, I have part-time work in two private business schools in Auckland. However, I am looking for a career with a stable job.


A. In general there are two types of business schools that advertise lectureships.

One type of business school is part of a research university. In general they will require a PhD and a record of research publications, as well as evidence of teaching ability.

There are also a number of business schools that are part of teaching-focused institutions.

In general, teaching institutions will require a background in the field through education (usually to at least masters level) and experience in both practice and teaching.

As you have not indicated that you have a record of academic publications, I can't assess your suitability for a research-based lectureship.

If you were applying for a teaching institution, your extensive degrees and experience should hold you in good stead.

In any job search, however, there is always the possibility that you will not be among the top two or three candidates for a shortlist.

Perhaps you should contact the head of the department to which you applied, and ask to meet to discuss whether you met the requirements for the position, and if so, how other candidates were better qualified.

You may find that the strengths of your CV are not coming through or require more effective presentation to secure an interview.

* Email your questions for Dr Marie Wilson to answer.