CAREERS NOW 10-04-06

When An Enemy Works Where You Want To Be Hired

DEAR JOYCE: I am a highly trained professional (master's degree) in a specialized field who started my own business two years ago when I rented office space from a woman in my same field, whom I now call "Voldamorta" [a villainess based on a character in the Harry Potter series].

Initially, Voldamorta and Tom, her business partner, were very friendly and helpful to me but things changed as I noticed a growing tension between them. Not being fond of office drama, I just kept to my own work although Voldamorta began to verbally attack me with crazy stories. After a thoroughly unpleasant coexistence, Voldamorta eventually left the office. That's when Tom confessed to me that he and Voldamorta had been having an affair and that she was jealous of me. I was stunned.

Now, a year later, I want to apply for a job with an organization that also employs Voldamorta. The director of this organization is likely to ask her what she thinks of me. In light of her previous behavior, I can't expect her to give me a positive assessment. Remembering how clueless I was about her relationship with Tom, I have no idea of the dynamic between the director, a man, and Voldamorta.

How do I defend myself against her likely slanderous words without tarnishing my own image? Should I confront her? - DM

Learning that an enemy is already settled in a workplace where you'd like to hang your timecard isn't a lot of fun.

How the dilemma plays out depends on how valuable your antagonist is to management and how closely you two would be in contact. With a friend on the inside, you may be able to get the water-cooler run-down. With three friends on the inside, their recommendations could smother a single bad mouth.

If Voldamorta's situation is secure, you can bet the farm that the boss will ask her for a reference on you. If not, you've got a chance. You also have a shot if you would work in separate office suites.

I can think of no sure way to present your side of history without raising alarm in the manager's mind that bringing you aboard would be built-in trouble. As for confronting your enemy, why? No gain there unless you're Tony Soprano.

If there are no other employers in your locale to practice your profession, can you relocate? You might get word of good jobs elsewhere from your professional or alumni association.

DEAR JOYCE: My question is how to tell a prospective employer that I need a specific time off for vacation every year because of prior timeshare travel plans. For example, for the first two weeks of July in the coming year, '07, I have already paid for a travel package.

Further, I need my vacation time every year after that for the first two weeks in May because I have a paid timeshare commitment. What do I say? - T.J.C.

You wait for the magic minutes between the job offer (or close to it) and your acceptance. That time period defines your best negotiating window. Begin by showing enthusiasm and saying how much you're looking forward to joining the team. And then add:

"But there are a couple of points I need to clear with you. Both concern my vacation time. Both reflect commitments for which I have already paid and paid for long before I had the good fortune to learn about this job and to meet you. The first vacation approval I would need is for the first two weeks of July next year for a travel package I bought. The second vacation approval is for the first two weeks in May in '08 and each year thereafter to use my timeshare. Because these expenditures are nonrefundable, I'm sure you understand why I need agreement up-front. Does this schedule work for you?"

If you meet resistance - "It sounds like your vacation is your priority" - here's your response:

"I give 110 percent to the job and after spending most of the year hitting work hard, I need time to recharge my batteries. Don't you?"

If a commitment to your vacation request is offered, ask if the agreement can be included in your offer letter. But if you encounter resistance, continue your job search.

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