Take This Job And Shove It

Dear Dog Lady,

Right off the bat, I should let you know I’m not a dog person. When I was a child, a dog bit me and I’ve been afraid of them ever since. But I still enjoy reading your column and thought you might help me with a problem I encountered during my recent job search.

I’m a programmer and when I went to interview at a small software company, I was greeted not by the receptionist but by three dogs brought to work by staffers. I wouldn’t walk further into the office until somebody held the dogs so they couldn’t get near me. I am very well-qualified for the job and the company’s president seemed impressed by my experience. He assured me that if I came to work for the company, the dogs would stay away from me. Should I get this promise in writing before I accept the job?

Kwan, Seattle, WA

Kwan, what a quandary. Shouldn’t you be more concerned with 401K plans and health insurance than a dog promissory note? Such a contract wouldn’t have any teeth. You want to fit into the cubicle culture of an office where you work. If you start off a job so defensively, you will be viewed as the oddball. Don’t expect the office to bend to your fears or your co-workers will inevitably resent you.

This work environment does not seem the best fit for you. As a talented programmer, you’re in the catbird seat about dogs in the office. If you feel this company’s relaxed rover rules do not suit you, then you should seriously consider passing on any offer and looking elsewhere.

Posted by Dog Lady at October 10, 2006 07:53 PM