I had the most embarrassing experience. I work as a marketing manager by day and lately have been making extra money as an Uber driver by night. I didn’t tell anyone at work because I don’t want anyone to think less of me or assume that I am not committed to my job and career. But on a recent call I picked up some colleagues who recognized me and, well, now they tease me about giving them rides home from work. Should I ’fess up to my boss before he finds out?
Ouch! You’ve just dissed thousands of NYC drivers who are wondering why you think people will think less of you for being an Uber driver as a sidehustle. It’s not as glamorous as being Batman by night for sure — but it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.
Unless your company specifically prohibits you from taking on a side job, or if the driving is in any way interfering with your day-job performance, then it really isn’t anyone’s business what you do off-hours. So I wouldn’t be defensive and go to your boss — and don’t give your colleagues the satisfaction of thinking they are getting to you.
My new boss is a jerk. He doesn’t listen and doesn’t ask for opinions of those who may have more experience than he does. Should I give him feedback or grit my teeth and bear it?
Sounds like the former will fall on deaf ears anyway and the latter will result eventually into a hefty dental bill. People leave bosses more than they leaves jobs or companies, so if it’s causing you that much grief, eventually something’s got to give. But before you make any decision, your best bet is to work hard at making the relationship work. Try to earn your new boss’ ear and trust. Sometimes new bosses come on strong to try to prove something but then settle down after a while. And sometimes they are just jerks. But give it a chance and work at it before making a premature decision that might not be in your own best interests.