Lifestyle
Looking for Lifestyle Exclusives? Get your Cheeky Card!Q: I work in information systems for a non-profit agency with funding problems. My boss decided we should be part of the fundraising effort. We are supposed to solicit family and friends for donations. I don’t want to do it! My mother was recently laid off and most of my friends are struggling with student loans. How do I say no?
A: You don’t unless you want to hear you’re not a “team player” at your next performance review. Ask your boss exactly what she wants you to do and then send letters or emails. The recipients are under no obligation to respond, much less donate. It’s okay to tell your boss that your family and friends are struggling financially but don’t go into detail. Do not suggest that the people you’re asking are good prospects. You don’t want to raise expectations that will be disappointed.
When non-profits ask employees to raise money that means they are in big trouble. Consider that your boss is under extreme pressure to help with fundraising or she wouldn’t be pressing her subordinates. Rev up your resume and begin spending every possible minute looking for a new job. It’s going to be tough in the office until the funding issues are resolved. Expect your co-workers to buzz at the water cooler and everyone to be hyper-sensitive to rumors and closed-door meetings. The politics of non-profits is about 20 percent more brutal than companies because the cause is noble. Companies exist to make money. Listen to what he said but Do Not Comment. Your opinions, especially your reluctance to solicit people will be used against you. Be as cheerful as possible and focus on holding on until you get a new job.
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Office Politics
