Spring 2013 | Page 9

even his team mates. Those kind of feelings are often hard to mend and can have a long term detrimental effect on one’s career. Rather than walking off the job in protest of some disagreement, here are 3 more positive approaches to handling grievances you may have at work. 1.  Talk to your boss, Human Resources, or union representative. Katie Rullo, the Director of Human Resources at Schultheis Brothers in Plum, Pennsylvania, stated, “I cannot stress enough how important it is to communicate with your boss or team leader in the workplace. Often it is lack of communication that results in termination or disciplinary action, but it can also ruin your professional relationships and reputation within a workplace.” 2. Ask for a leave of absence. Sometimes a short break from the job is enough to let things cool down a bit. The difference here is that you asked for the time off and it was approved. Use a vacation day or two and enjoy a “mental health break” away from work. A short leave of absence may also be the answer. Guidelines for paid or unpaid leave of absences can vary by employer, so be sure to talk to your human resources manager. Having a 3 or 4 day weekend away from the issue at work may give you a fresh perspective on the issue, or you may find that things have improved during your absence. 3. Find another job. After all this isn’t your ball game and you don’t get to make the rules. Most employers today will even have you sign an agreement saying you acknowledge that you understand what the rules are and that you will follow them. If you reach a point where you truly cannot work under the employer’s rules anymore, don’t act out with unprofessional behavior, rather find an employer whose rules are more compatible with your own goals and beliefs. You can walk it off, but don’t walk away. Walking away from the job unannounced is one of the worst things you can do. It may get you severely disciplined or even fired. It can permanently damage your relationship with your employer and erode your credibility even if you come back and apologize. There are many positive ways to voice your disagreement with your boss. Communication is key. In Mendenhall’s case you have to wonder what Coach Tomlin’s reaction would have been if Mendenhall would have approached the Coach in private to discuss his concerns rather than simply not showing up. TQR Let’s Take A Break! 8 Ways to Cut Honeymoon Costs 1. Book way ahead. 2. Or wait until the last minute. 3. Decoupling your honeymoon from your wedding. 4. Ask for freebies and barter for services. 5. Scout deals out in advance. 6. Plan a destination wedding. 7. Consider a package or all-inclusive. 8. Cut back on the length of your trip. Get the whole story of Bankrate.com