Ask Sue
A Weekly Q&A Column About Professionalism, Etiquette and Problems in the Workplace
by Sue Morem

Small Raise, Getting a Job without Transportation, Thank You Notes

Dear Sue: How do I thank my boss for a raise that I think is fair, but not great? I don't want her to think I would be happy with this amount of a raise every year, but I assume I should show some gratitude. - Jacki

Sue Says: Thank her for the raise and let her know how much you value your pay increases. Be sure she knows that you are motivated to work hard and do what it takes to continue to increase your earning potential.

You may want to find a time to sit down with her, share your aspirations and ask her what you need to do to receive an even bigger raise next time. If you fail to inform her of your ambitions, she will assume you are fine with things the way they are. It is important for you to know how far you can go with this company and important for you boss to know what you are working toward.

Dear Sue: I am 16 years old. I need to find a job close to my home because I don't have transportation. What should I do? - Dayna

Sue Says: You can look for jobs close enough to your home that won't require transportation, but don't overlook the option of using public transportation, which works for many people. If you have difficulty finding something, consider looking for a job in your neighborhood; you could baby-sit, mow lawns, walk dogs or offer some other type of service. Consider all your options, and don't give up until you find something.
Good luck!

Dear Sue: I write thank you notes each month to people who regularly support an outreach program with finances. How can I change the wording month after month so that it does not sound trite or repetitive, but truly appreciative of the financial support? - Margaret

Sue Says: There aren’t too many different ways to say thank you, but you may be able to change each note by including current updates of how the money is being used or information about what the outreach program is accomplishing. The people who support the program should be interested knowing how things are going and how their support is making a difference.

However, you don’t have to worry too much about your creativity; while it is important for people to receive a note of thanks, most people don’t scrutinize the notes they receive and appreciate the acknowledgement. It is fine to keep your notes simple with a traditional thank you, but once in awhile you may want to mention that although a simple thank you may seem redundant, you want to make sure he/she knows it is heartfelt and that you really do appreciate the continued support.

Sue Morem is a professional speaker, trainer and syndicated columnist. She is author of the newly released 101 Tips for Graduates and How to Gain the Professional Edge, Second Edition. You can contact her by email at asksue@suemorem.com or visit her web site at http://www.suemorem.com. 

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