DEAR ABBY: I am in desperate need of your wisdom. Recently I went out of my way to help my sister get a very good job. She's always down on her luck and seems to get laid off for no good reason.
Well, now that she's working with me, it's crystal clear why she can't keep a job more than a few months. She's in her late 20s, but acts like she's still in high school. Each morning she describes every intimate detail of her adventures from the night before. She calls in sick frequently, then goes on and on about her health conditions, most of which are so far-fetched they are impossible to believe.
I have tried to speak casually with her about saving her stories for break time, but she doesn't "get it." Now there are rumors that she will be fired soon. Because we don't work in the same area of the office, I figured I was OK, but today I overheard co-workers discussing what a mess she was. How do I protect what is left of my credibility and fix this nightmare? -- HUMILIATED IN OREGON
DEAR HUMILIATED: Your sister appears to be not only immature, but also suffers from an exaggerated need to be the center of attention. Her work ethic could also use some retooling.
While she may be an embarrassment to you, she is not a reflection on you or your career. When she's gone -- and if the rumors you're hearing are accurate, you should start the countdown now -- speak privately to your bosses and apologize for any inconvenience your sister has caused them. That's all you owe them.
If your sister should ask, and only if, then tell her why she was let go. But casually hinting around won't change her, and she may have to learn these lessons the hard way.