ShareThisBy MARVIN WALBERG
Monday, November 20, 2006
Dear Mr. Walberg:
I worked for my previous employer for six years and always received regular, generous raises, and never received any negative comments regarding my work, demeanor, or ability to contribute to my team.
Early this year, I had to go on FMLA, family leave, to care for my daughter who was diagnosed with colon cancer. As my FMLA was about to expire, I went to plan my return to work and was told that during my absence they had divided my job (Administrative Assistant to the President) between two individuals and they were willing to allow me to stay on if I accepted a 30-hour per week Receptionist/Sales Assistant position at 1/3 my previous pay rate.
Is there anything I can do about my previous employer's actions, and how do I explain my "departure" from that job to prospective employers. It's bad enough that I am almost 60 and am expected to compete with the younger crowd in our youth-worshipping culture.
E-mail from T.J. in Indiana
Dear T.J.:
I'm sorry for your troubles, and hope that your daughter is improving. Looks like three issues ...
_Your age.
_Your previous employer.
_Dealing with both with prospective employers.
I should think that the younger crowd would be competing with you, not you with them. It's you who have the experience and maturity to make clear decisions and solve problems. Focus on your strengths, not on other's youth.
As for your former employer, a labor attorney could give you the proper advice if you seek recourse, but I would caution you to avoid mixing your bitterness and vengeance with your search for new employment. Keep the two actions completely separated.
It's a very normal emotion to want to hit back, or defend yourself, when you feel attacked or mistreated, but prospective employers don't want to hear that you experienced problems on your last job. They might consider the possibility that you were the bad guy and might repeat the action, so tell them your job was replaced while you were on FMLA and you are looking to continue your career. Period. Do not dwell on negatives or try to draw support for your defense. Move on to your strengths and why you are the person who should be hired.
