fuck this job.com

Ever had the feeling that a really bad episode from your past working life was going to repeat itself? Well, I just got that nasty feeling during the past week.

This story that follows is pure fiction but is based on the reality of family run enterprises. This is the type of business where in many instances, family members are fast tracked up the corporate ladder and where relatives with no track record are given positions of power and responsibility.

The new secretary wanted to make a good impression with her boss so when two smart suited young men came striding into the office, she knew what she had to do.
“Is Mr. B in?” said one of the men in a condescending tone.

This story that follows is pure fiction but is based on the reality of family run enterprises. This is the type of business where in many instances, family members are fast tracked up the corporate ladder and where relatives with no track record are given positions of power and responsibility.

The new secretary wanted to make a good impression with her boss so when two smart suited young men came striding into the office, she knew what she had to do.
“Is Mr. B in?” said one of the men in a condescending tone.

One day, top management decided that it would be a ‘step in the right direction’ to get an assistant for our overworked CFO. It turned out the decision was not so smart since the CFO was not willing to delegate anything to anyone, least of all a new recruit. When the new guy was finally brought in, he was given pretty much the same tasks that we did with the added onus of coordinating and supervising our work - big job since that meant trying to control and supervise four unruly, laid back junior accountants.

Ever had a manager with a rotten habit? Ever had a manager with a rotten attitude?

Whenever you see job postings you can bet that they are as fictitious and devious as any type of advertising. What makes them even worse is the fact that the firms that put them on pride themselves with being ethical and professional. Case in point is the adverts that used to interest me most – those for positions in accounting departments at auditors or financial service firms. The promises are many; career prospects, work-life balance, options to work overseas, gain experience, support advancement, unleashing your potential.

If you work for a firm that puts business attire high on its agenda, then you are not alone. Most audit/accountant firms like the one I work for are sticklers for appearance. The big plus point of being in such a firm is that you can earn merits with the least effort. Take a look at your boss or immediate senior and if they wear shirts with French cuffs and cufflinks, do the same. Invest in a collection of assorted neckties and rotate daily – a boldly striped tie can avert attention from your ageing pinstripe and is cheaper than a suit.