Working World

Dear Jewish Fairy Godmother,

I recently got back from maternity leave and I’m taking a new position within the company. The person who filled in for me while I was gone did a great job and is very interested continuing with the position, but I’m not sure if I should recommend him. He had some politics-related conflicts with one of the vice presidents of the organization. What’s the middle ground in this situation? 

—Leaving

Dear Leaving:

Assuming the VP has made her feelings known, your caution is wise. It’s foolish to be confrontational about politics in any office, let alone when you’re there as a guest. That’s not only common sense, but also good manners.

Tell the eager substitute that there’ll be a formal, equal opportunity, affirmative action hiring process. Explain that you cannot just hand over the keys and the passwords to your computer to the would-be replacement.

Offer to brief him on internal politics and offer to be a professional reference. That’s not the same as giving him an unqualified endorsement. If he makes it to the finals you can decide how strong you want to be in your support.

By the way, it’s always good policy to get your own letter of reference when you leave a job rather than to trust memories at some later time.  

Your Jewish Fairy Godmother is available to anyone with a question about coping with contemporary life. She's clever. She's wise. She's relentless. She cares. And she's on your side. Everybody needs one. Send your questions to helen@yourjewishfairygodmother.com.