DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been working part time at a job I really like for about four months. Recently, I got another part-time job that I also like and that pays a lot better. My plan is to keep both jobs so I can cobble together enough money to do the things I like.
My problem is that the new job is way more demanding than I thought it would be, and I'm having a hard time juggling everything. Last week, I had to bail on my first job three days in a row. This week, I didn't come in one day, and I got so busy I forgot to call.
My boss is understanding, but I know I have to do something differently. What do you recommend? I don't want to quit either job. -- Stretched, Queens, N.Y.
DEAR STRETCHED: Communication is essential here. But before talking with your bosses, you need to be crystal clear about what you can and cannot do and what you would like to do if given the option.
Look carefully at your schedule. What is not working? Do you think things will settle down soon at your new job? Is the schedule fixed, or will it change? Do you think you can change your hours at your first job, possibly working less so that you have time for yourself in the midst of your busy workday? Figure out what makes sense for you, and evaluate whether it might make sense for your employers.
Next, apologize to your first boss for your absences and lateness. Acknowledge that you know that if you cannot do something, you should call and not just be a no-show. (That is enough to get you fired, by the way.)
Explain to your first boss what your schedule is like. Tell him or her that you would like to stay at the job, and ask if you can change the hours or days when you come in. By discussing this with your employer, you create the opportunity to work it out.
As much as you like the first job, it pays less than the second job and thus is where you should try to make changes. Perhaps a full-time opportunity will be available at the second job if and when you are ready to part ways with the first one.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I keep getting solicitations for bank loans and other financial instruments at work. It's odd. I feel like they started right after I had a problem with the IRS.
How can I get them to stop? They come in email and regular mail. -- Hassled, Washington, D.C.
DEAR HASSLED: You can flag the emails as spam and ask your provider to block them. As far as regular mail, you can tear up the letters or write "return to sender" on them and put them back in the mail.
If you need financial support, go through a trusted institution or professional whom you know or who has been referred by someone you respect.