I’m a young professional working for a company. I’ve been in the same workplace for a couple of years, and there are many things I love about it.

A few months ago, however, I got a new boss. He never gave me positive feedback, but leaned over my shoulder and disliked everything I did. When I tried talking to him about my concerns, he suggested I give up.

The stress being too much to bear, I moved to another job in the same company. While the pay was lower, it would allow me to take some classes to improve myself.

Here’s the problem. At the beginning, I agreed to help with small tasks from my old department while it searched for my replacement(接替者). But it seems that my old boss isn’t actively searching. I am still under as much stress as I was working for him full time, but now I’m getting less pay.

How do I deal with this situation without jeopardizing my new position, which fits my education schedule so well?

Rose

You have probably realized that it was a mistake to make such an open-ended offer. You should have suggested helping out with certain tasks for a certain period of time, which would have made your old boss replace you timely.

Now here’re two ways. First, communicate what’s going on to your new boss. Don’t make it a huge complaint, just be matter-of-fact. You thoughtfully offered to help your old department through a transitional(过渡的) period for the good of the company—but you can’t keep doing two jobs forever, and you want to focus on doing the best you can in your new role. Your new boss needs to know that this is happening—and, frankly, should immediately step in to handle the matter without further discussion.

Second, you should say no if necessary. The next time your old boss asks you to do something, tell him that while you are happy to help him, you must give your new job your full attention.

Remember you’re not complaining, or starting a fight; you simply have the company’s best interests in mind. Your old department needs to move on—and you need to do your new job.

Mary