Q: I have been employed as a medical receptionist for a year at a multi-doctor clinic. Before that I worked for 20 years as an assistant to a vice president at a large company but got tired of my 90-mile commute. I like working with the doctor and the patients, and I do a pretty good job. My first 90-day review was excellent. Recently, though, something is just not right. My nice raincoat was stolen out of a staff-only closet. I reported it to the office manager, who did nothing. Next, this manager said someone complained that I was reading medical charts that did not belong to my doctor and that I discussed them with others. I was shocked and told her this simply did not happen.

This clinic is a hotbed of gossip, but I never get involved in the drama and keep my mouth closed. I can't afford to quit this job before finding a new one. Any advice until I do?

A: You may want to look for a larger employer where your 20 years of professionalism will be not only appreciated, but expected. Remind the office manager that you worked for a company vice president for 20 years, and if you were the kind of person to do such things as you've been accused of, you would not have had the success and longevity you experienced there. Ask her to investigate the disappearance of your coat, and explain that you think it's clear that one of the clinic's staff members is apparently jealous of you, and possibly vindictive. If she does not respond with the same concern over the problem, ask if she would like you to meet directly with the doctor, and watch what you say to her from that point on.

You should confidentially tell the doctor about the false accusations and explain what has taken place in the clinic. Doctors are typically not adept at dealing or caring about office politics, but if you think the office manager is the source of the problem, he needs to know it. Not wanting to drive 90 miles to a larger city for a job is understandable, but you may need to find a bigger employer if you want a more professional environment.

Business Partners Stopped Talking to Each Other: Not a Good Sign for Continuing Business

Q: I work for a small company owned by three men, two of whom I work with weekly. These two have become upset with each other and have stopped speaking to each other. They are both in bad moods and take their frustration out on all the employees. I've been here nine months and the office manager has been here only four months. I want to say something but I'm afraid of losing my job or making the situation worse. Whose responsibility is it to tell them to grow up and deal with their problems?

A: Yes, you would likely be fired if you lectured either one of the owners on maturity. You might do well, though, to express empathy over the situation. Business partners must communicate with each other if the business is to continue. Since both men are taking out their anger on their employees, the rift is probably serious. Many small business partnerships dissolve because of disagreements, and you may need to find new employment sooner than you'd like.

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