Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa, Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about their manager's poor feedback skills. She emphasizes the importance of effective feedback in management and discusses the challenges of coaching a manager. Christa outlines the art and science of feedback, providing practical advice on how to approach the situation and improve communication. She also shares valuable resources for further learning and development in feedback skills.

Key Takeaways

·       Most people are terrible at giving feedback.

·       Giving effective feedback is hard to do.

·       Management is a technical role that requires skill.

·       Feedback is an art and a science.

·       The approach to feedback is crucial for success.

·       Observable behaviors should be the focus of feedback.

·       Feedback models like BIC can help structure effective communication.

·       Creating a safe environment is essential for feedback.

·       Continuous learning is key to improving feedback skills.

Additional Resources

Britton, K. (2009, October 16). How to Give Feedback So People Can Hear it. Positive Psychology News. https://positivepsychologynews.com/news/kathryn-britton/200910163806 

Dhimo, C. (2025, June 12). Ask Christa! Managing an Interrupting Boss (S2E16). Ask Christa! https://www.askchrista.com/ask-christa-managing-an-interrupting-boss-s2e16/

Dhimo, C. (2025, June 9). Ask Christa! How to give feedback to a defensive team member?? (S2E15). Ask Christa! https://www.askchrista.com/ask-christa-how-to-give-feedback-to-a-defensive-team-member-s2e15/

Dhimo, C. (2025, October 3). Ask Christa! How can I ask my work friend to meet deadlines? (S4E46). Ask Christa! https://www.askchrista.com/ask-christa-how-can-i-ask-my-work-friend-to-meet-deadlines-s4e46/

University of Minnesota Office of Human Resources. (2025, April 3). How coachable are your employees? https://hr.umn.edu/supervising/news/How-coachable-are-your-employees

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about their boss's lack of meetings and the feelings of disconnection that arise from it. She emphasizes the importance of purposeful meetings, the benefits of maintaining a connection with one's boss, and the dynamics of manager-employee relationships. Christa provides insights into how meeting frequency should align with the employee's role and the necessity of fostering a healthy rapport with management. The episode concludes with resources for further understanding workplace dynamics and improving communication with bosses.

Key Takeaways

·       Meetings without purpose plague most people during the day.

·       It's important to feel and be connected (including to your manager) at work.

·       The cadence of meetings with your manager should support a purpose.

·       Visibility of your work is a benefit of meeting with your boss.

·       Strong functional employee-manager relationships are essential.

·       Honest and respectful rapport is crucial for successful meetings with employees / managers.

·       You deserve to have a gainful relationship with your boss.

·       Reduced meetings might happen as you grow in your role.

·       Staying connected is a good reason to meet.

Additional Resources

Aggarwal, A., Chand, P. K., Jhamb, D., & Mittal, A. (2020). Leader–Member exchange, work engagement, and psychological withdrawal behavior: the mediating role of psychological empowerment. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 423. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00423

Dhimo, C. (2025, June 23). Ask Christa! Why organizational structure matters!! (S2E19). Ask Christa! https://www.askchrista.com/ask-christa-why-organizational-structure-matters-s2e19/

GreggU. (2023, August 31). Leader-Member Exchange LMX Theory [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sRXPZ79L10

How to Get the Most Out of a One-on-One with Your Boss. (2024, April 12). Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2024/04/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-a-one-on-one-with-your-boss

Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, December 11). 12 ways to ensure a successful meeting with your boss. Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/meeting-with-boss

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about dealing with a difficult boss who belittles a new team member. She emphasizes the importance of documenting such behavior, understanding workplace policies, and knowing employee rights. Christa provides actionable steps for reporting misconduct and highlights various resources available for employees facing workplace bullying. (she also thanks the listener and teammates for looking after a co-worker)

Key Takeaways

·       Most people aren't prepared to become a manager.

·       Bad behavior in the workplace is often excused and frequently tolerated.

·       Documenting behavior is crucial for addressing bad workplace behaviors.

·       Understanding laws related to workplace bullying is essential.

·       Support systems exist for employees facing difficult bosses.

·       Resources can help navigate workplace dynamics effectively.

·       It's important to stand up for coworkers facing bullying.

Additional Resources

Ginny Clarke. (2024, December 9). Got a Workplace Bully? Here’s How to Fight Back (Professionally, of course) [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3xfMWIl9Sc

Harassment - FAQs. (n.d.). U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/youth/harassment-faqs

How to Report Workplace Harassment Incidents - Project WHEN. (2021, September 10). Project WHEN. https://projectwhen.org/resources/how-to-report-workplace-harassment-incidents

Iq, C. (2025, January 2). 10 Clear signs your manager might be a workplace bully (And How to Respond). Case IQ. https://www.caseiq.com/resources/10-signs-that-one-of-your-managers-is-a-workplace-bully

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about her boss assigning her work that belongs to him, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing one's value in the workplace. Christa provides actionable steps to shift the mindset, help employees reclaim their roles and navigate the complexities of workplace dynamics, especially when dealing with bad bosses.

Key Takeaways

·       Most people aren't prepared to become a manager.

·       Resetting boundaries is uncomfortable but necessary.

·       Recognizing your value is crucial in the workplace.

·       There are practical ways to manage being taken advantage of.

·       Resources are available to help navigate workplace challenges.

Additional Resources

Monster.com. (2025, May 20). 5 signs you’re being taken advantage of at work. https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/being-taken-advantage-of-at-work-0517

Mutawe, E. (2025, September 8). 10 signs of a manipulative boss (and how to handle them at work). BrighterMonday Kenya. https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/discover/manipulative-boss#10_Taking_Credit_for_Your_Work

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, a listener explains that they do not like their boss and asks how to handle it. Christa discusses the challenges of managing relationships with people you may not like and offers practical advice for those facing these situations. Additionally, she shares valuable resources to help listeners navigate their workplace challenges effectively.

Key Takeaways

·       Most people aren't prepared to become a manager.

·       You don't have to like your manager to do your job.

·       Understanding your boss's perspective can help.

·       Micromanagement can be frustrating but is sometimes necessary.

·       There are resources available to help situations where you don’t like your boss.

·       You're not alone in your feelings about your boss.

·       Seeking out resources can provide valuable support.

Additional Resources

How to play nicely with a boss you hate | The Muse. (n.d.). The Muse. https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-play-nicely-with-a-boss-you-hate

Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, November 27). 5 steps to take when you realise, “I hate my boss.” Indeed Career Guide. https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/i-hate-my-boss

Rotman School of Management. (2025, February 18). Manage This! How to thrive, even when you hate your boss [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXhroQf21tg

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about job boredom and the challenges of waiting for a promotion. She emphasizes the importance of open communication with managers and offers strategies to stay engaged at work while waiting for new opportunities. The episode concludes with resources for further reading on managing workplace boredom and preparing for career advancement.

Key Takeaways

·       Boredom at work is common; engaging in additional learning opportunities can help.

·       Boredom can be for different reasons.

·       Employees will feel bored if they aren’t challenged over time.

·       Taking on small projects or offering to plug in work gaps can alleviate boredom

·       Employees must be able to talk with their managers if they feel bored

·       Resources are available for further exploration of workplace boredom.

Additional Resources

Ask a career coach: I’ve got a good job, but I’m bored. What should I do? | The Muse. (n.d.). The Muse. https://www.themuse.com/advice/ask-a-career-coach-ive-got-a-good-job-but-im-bored-what-should-i-do

Team, I. E. C. (2025, March 25). The Difference Between Exempt vs. Non-Exempt Employees. https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/exempt-vs-non-exempt-employee

Fishbach, A. (2018, November 1). How to Keep Working When You’re Just Not Feeling It. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2018/11/how-to-keep-working-when-youre-just-not-feeling-it

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about the distinction between a job and a career and how to talk about them in a way that works for you. She emphasizes that it's perfectly acceptable to love a job without labeling it as a career. Christa discusses the evolving nature of careers, the importance of self-reflection on personal strengths, and how to articulate one's job in a way that aligns with career aspirations. She also provides resources for further exploration of these themes, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique career narratives.

Key Takeaways

·       It's okay to love your job without labeling it a career.

·       Reflecting on your strengths can help define your career.

·       The traditional linear career path is changing.

·       Resources can help distinguish between a job and a career.

·       You can redefine how you view your work and career.

Additional Resources

Blewitt, D. (2024, May 3). The difference between job and career. Career Smarter. https://www.careersmarter.com/the-difference-between-job-and-career/?srsltid=AfmBOoovNph4xwhu5NT98hnE4zbOcnwaqoLDSS6QxH_7GbOxSP9smBnT

Differences between Career, Occupation, and Job – BigFuture. (n.d.). https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/explore-careers/get-started/career-vs-occupation-vs-job 

Todd, L. (2025, November 1). I Don’t Want a Career — Is That OK? Lucy Todd Coaching, LLC. https://lucytoddcoaching.com/i-dont-want-a-career-is-that-ok/

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concern about feeling at a standstill in their job with no possible development ahead. She discusses the emotional journey of loving a job and then feeling stuck due to a lack of advancement opportunities. Christa emphasizes the importance of recognizing job stagnation and provides strategies for seeking new opportunities and resources for career development. She encourages listeners to explore organizations that prioritize growth and offers practical advice for navigating career transitions.

Key Takeaways

·       It's to feel bored in a job you once loved after you master it.

·       Recognizing job stagnation is the first step to change.

·       Look for companies that offer career growth opportunities.

·       Do your homework on potential employers.

·       Consider upskilling or cross-skilling to enhance your career.

Additional Resources

Boornazian, M. (2025, March 28). How to get out of a dead end job: tips and training pathways. Climb Hire. https://climbhire.co/career-development/how-to-get-out-of-dead-end-job/

Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, July 26). 15 Signs of a Dead-End Job (And What to do about it). Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/signs-of-dead-end-job

LCSW, R. T. (2015, October 28). Before you cut and run, figure out where you want to go. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fixing-families/201510/dealing-the-dead-end-job

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Dr. Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's question about feeling ready for a promotion and needing to convince their manager they deserve the promotion. Christa discusses the importance of understanding the promotion process, the role of readiness, and the value of a formal development plan. She emphasizes that promotions should be based on an employee's readiness to succeed in a new role rather than just mastering their current position. Additionally, Christa provides resources for further learning about promotions and career development.

Key Takeaways

·       Promotions are best done when supported by a formal development plan.

·       Understanding the promotion process is crucial.

·       Promotions should be based on readiness to succeed, not a timeline.

·       Employees should take advantage of available promotion resources.

·       Learning is a key part of the promotion journey.

Additional Resources

Aloufi, NT (corresponding author), Alabri, B.A., Elshareef, A.M. (2025) The Impact of the Promotion on the Employee's Productivity. ISSN (online): 2582-7138 Volume: 06 Issue: 03 May-June 2025 Received: 05-04-2025 Accepted: 06-05-2025 Page No: 1163-1170. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation. https://www.allmultidisciplinaryjournal.com/uploads/archives/20250604183847_MGE-2025-3-266.1.pdf 

Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, June 6). What you need to know about job promotions. Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/job-promotion

Leapsome. (2025, November 21). 10 Criteria for Employee Promotion Justification. Compensation & Rewards. https://www.leapsome.com/blog/promotion-criteria 

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.

Summary

In this episode of Ask Christa!, host Christa Dhimo addresses a listener's concerns about feeling stagnant in their career despite having qualifications, experience, and an upcoming promotion. The listener shares how setbacks, including layoffs and a lack of challenging opportunities, led to feelings of being stuck. Christa emphasizes the importance of shifting perspectives on career stagnation, encouraging listeners to recognize their progress and prepare for future opportunities. She also provides resources for further career development and insights into overcoming feelings of inadequacy.

Key Takeaways

·       The feeling of being stuck often stems from external setbacks.

·       Career growth can take longer than expected, and that's normal.

·       Trust in the opportunities that arise from setbacks.

·       Taking a step back can provide clarity and perspective.

·       Resources can provide additional support for career development.

Additional Resources

3 Realistic things you can do when your career isn’t living up to your expectations | The Muse. (n.d.). The Muse. https://www.themuse.com/advice/3-realistic-things-you-can-do-when-your-career-isnt-living-up-to-your-expectations 

Break Career Stagnation: 7 Ways to Grow Professionally. (2025, January 8). https://www.alliedonesource.com/breaking-through-career-stagnation-7-practical-strategies-to-reignite-professional-growth

Luwei, W., & Huimin, M. (2024). From jobs to careers: drivers and barriers to career development in emerging labor markets. Frontiers in Sociology, 9, 1486871. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2024.1486871

---------------------
Ask Christa! Business Questions, Straight Answers, Real Impact

© 2025 - Present Christa Dhimo in partnership with Impono LLC and 21st Century Strategies. Ask Christa! has a pending Trademark. All Rights Reserved.

I record and produce my podcasts using Riverside and their music library for subscribers.

Links:
Ask Christa!: https://www.askchrista.com/
Contact & Booking: https://christadhimo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christadhimo/

Disclaimer
The Ask Christa! show is designed to provide accurate and practical insights into common business challenges and workplace issues. Dr. Christa Dhimo stands by the information she shares and the resources she provides; however, every situation is unique. Listeners are encouraged to use this podcast as a helpful resource while also seeking additional, qualified, professional advice, including but not limited to legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice, as warranted. Ask Christa! and its host disclaim liability for actions taken solely on the basis of the information provided here, especially if taken out of context.