DR. WALLACE: I work in a fast food restaurant a few evenings and on weekends. I'm a senior in high school, and the extra money comes in handy for activities involving my social life.

I'd like to move up to a better job, but I've only been here at this one for three months. Do you think I need to stay at a job at least six months before I apply to work at other companies? This job is OK, but the pay is not the best, and the working conditions involve others who absolutely don't pull their weight. I'm responsible, and I work really hard even though others around me goof off half the time. When the time is right, I'd like to move on. — Ready to Bounce, via email

READY TO BOUNCE: In today's competitive job market, job openings and employment opportunities definitely cut both ways. You will find employers out there who need good people to fill open positions they have outstanding.

You can absolutely right now start sending resumes out to other companies. If and when you get called into an interview, you can explain that normally you would stay at a job longer but that the working conditions were not the greatest, and the management did not oversee your coworkers effectively.

Be diplomatic, and don't complain or whine. Just mention that you like to work hard, do a good job, and you'd like to see your best efforts rewarded at another new opportunity. The only thing you may be giving up by leaving your existing job after three months is a reference, but even that may be possible. Do your best to leave on good terms, offer them one or two weeks' notice, and explain to a prospective new employer that you will need to honor your notice first before you can begin working at a new job. Most employers will not only understand that but appreciate it and value the character you're demonstrating.

WE'VE REACHED A NATURAL ENDING POINT

DR. WALLACE: I dated a guy in high school steadily for the past year and a half of high school, and although we got along fine, I definitely wouldn't say that we were high school sweethearts.

We are both now attending different colleges about 50 miles away from each other. He still wants to get together every weekend, and he's doing his best to keep our relationship going, but quite honestly I feel it's time that we explore other possibilities. I've had many social opportunities to date new people here at my university, and I've held off so far.

What do you think is the best way for me to let my boyfriend know that it's time we both give each other some serious space? — Dreading the Conversation, via email

DREADING THE CONVERSATION: The most important thing to do is to be direct and honest. Don't waver, and be sure to let him know that he did nothing wrong.

Simply put, your lives are each entering a new phase, and there's nothing to be ashamed about. Let him know you'll always cherish the memories you two shared together. The common saying "a clean break" is well known for a reason. Seek to be sure that you communicate that point well but also diplomatically and with finesse.

In the end, you'll be doing him a favor: It's better to be honest than to drag things out unnecessarily, as that would negatively impact not only him but also you.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. Email him at [email protected]. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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