Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I am 28 and I’m about to move into a managerial position at a tiny start-up company. I am good at my job and feel confident I can make a success of the new role. However the thought that I am a “push over” has weighed heavily on my mind since a brutal interview at a large organisation over five years ago, and another boss – who was somewhat cross I’m leaving – has said it again in the last few weeks.
While it’s true I prefer to hear all points of view before deciding on the right way forward, I absolutely don’t believe in “decision by committee”. I find the criticism infuriating, but I do struggle with strong personalities. (Particularly, stubborn and sulky chaps who see me as a silly young girl!)
Can you offer any insight about how to appear strong and single-minded, while still adopting a careful decision making process?
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
