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Should You Cover For A Co-Worker?

Dear CC: My cubicle-mate sauntered in two hours late last week smelling of Captain Morgan. This is the second time, and it puts me on the spot with the boss. How to handle?

Start with the direct approach: "Hey, Allison, another night out with Tommy Lee and the Olsen twins? We all have our moments, but I really don't feel comfortable covering for you again, OK?" Allow one more slip-up, then tell your boss. Most companies offer confidential help for substance-abuse problems, and your cubicle-mate may well need it.

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Workplace worries, thorny career questions, financial fiascoes - we've got them covered! It's all here - check it out then start planning your route to the corner office.

About the Authors
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Cubicle

Call me "CC," Cubicle Coach. I have been "you" and now I can hire "you." I have many years of experience playing the angles, doing the dance. In my time, I've seen 'em all - the strivers, the poseurs, the weasels, the Eeyores, and the precious few who "just get it." I'll tell it to you straight.

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Eileen

Eileen Conlan is an assistant editor at Marie Claire. She lives in New York City, and loves cooking, reading and reviewing new books, and shopping the city for the perfect deal. She also has an affinity for traveling, and anything vintage, making the Hell's Kitchen flea market her favorite weekend haunt.

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Jihan

I'm an editorial assistant in the features department, I'm addicted to the New York Times crossword puzzles (Monday only!), figuring out how to save a little money in the country's most expensive city and bad reality television.

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