DEAR HARRIETTE: My former boss hired me to go with her to her new company to help build up the business. She trusted me to set up systems that would help this company be efficient, and I did exactly that. Turns out, though, that we did not often agree on the approach. I am a systems guy, and I believe in delivering information in a clear and concise way so that others understand what is expected of them and on what timeline. My boss, on the other hand, is very touchy-feely. She likes to talk to people about how they like what we are doing, and she lets people get away with things if they act "nice." I did not think that was a good strategy. Whenever we talked about styles, it became an issue. After a year, I gave up. I quit my job because it was clear to me that we were never going to come to a meeting of the minds. I think I left on decent terms, but I am concerned about how to move on and get a job that works for me. -- At a Brick Wall, Denver
DEAR AT A BRICK WALL: I'm sorry that you did not figure out a way to transition into a new job while you still had a job. That is usually an easier way to make a career transition. That said, as you now look for work, learn about the corporate culture where you are interviewing. Find out what the management style is like at a potential employer. You may also want to do some research in the field of emotional intelligence. You may discover that there is a bridge between systems and learning how to manage emotions that will help you become a more effective leader. Harvard professor Daniel Goleman has spent many years writing on the subject. Check out danielgoleman.info/topics/emotional-intelligence/.