With the announcement of “2% across the board” in this week’s staff meeting, I thought I should step up my game for my one-on-one meeting today.
I came prepared with my current responsibilites and challenges and concrete ideas to improve the department. Why do I bother?
The conversation went like this:
Her: I see you are going to Vegas. I love Vegas. That’s so exciting.
Me: Yep. Do it every year at Thanksgiving.
Her: Where are you staying?
Me: Paris.
Her: That must be nice to be able to afford to travel so much.
Me: Silence. Then I try to lead into a work topic , “I made you a copy of what I’m currently working on and some long term projects I’d like to engage in.”
(total of 2 mins of actual work discussion before she steers the topic back to Vegas)
Her: Did I tell you about a time I went to Vegas with a gentleman friend? We went to Dicks Last Resort and they made me a hat that said “The carpet doesn’t match the drapes”.
Me: Gosh, I hope you remembered to take it off before you went outside. (really? like anyone thought the hair was natural?)
Me: I have some concerns with the recent and upcoming downsizing about my position, particularly if there are no new customers to implement.
Her: Yeah, I can see why you would. I have concerns as well. And the way I am handling it is to restructure my finances. I eliminated cable and other frivolous expenses. I’m really paying attention to my budget just in case I am laid off as well.
Me : Ok, so should I be worried?
Her: Well, you never know what’s going to happen, so you should prepare.
At this point, I am mentally checking out and thinking about the jobs I have seen at indeed.com
The conversation continues on for another 45 minutes, during which time, work is not mentioned.
No offense, but I don’t need another buddy.
