#My boss peddles conspiracy theories and talks crazy: What can I do?

I work for someone who thinks the COVID-19 jabs have microchips in them, and I am having a hard time keeping my cool. I know you aren’t supposed to talk politics at work and people can have their own opinion, but it’s hard to hold back. Should I ask to be moved to a different boss?

What are you trying to say? That COVID isn’t real and that this is a giant government conspiracy designed to control our thoughts and actions? I bet you think we actually landed on the moon, too. OK, back to reality.

If that is the only crazy thing your boss says or does that makes you not want to work for him then perhaps you stick it out (Get it? Stick…jab…) until this whole insane period passes. Otherwise, try privately and respectfully asking him to keep his ridiculous opinions to himself. But if this is just another in a long list of behaviors that drive you insane, it might be time to call Area 51 and find another crazy boss to work for.

You talk about networking, but how do I do it, and what do I say? I’m not good at “selling” myself and am very shy, so not sure this will work for me.

Here’s a little secret. If you know anything about personality tests, such as Myers-Briggs, you know that it’s possible to be naturally shy and still appear to others to be outgoing. It takes a lot of energy and you can’t sustain it all the time, but in certain situations, it is necessary to break out of your comfort zone.

The job search, including networking and interviewing, are such situations. Being shy is neither good or bad as a general characteristic, it’s simply who you are — and actually, I’d prefer to hire someone who is naturally shy than a loudmouth attention grabber. Being shy doesn’t mean you can’t speak up for yourself and talk about who you are and why you’re qualified for a role.

Ease into networking with closer contacts — friends, family and associates. You’re simply asking what they do, sharing your career interests, and seeing if they can help you, or introduce you to someone who can. Think of it as having a coffee and shooting the breeze with a friend, who then connects you with one of their friends, and so on.

Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a chief human resources executive and is dedicated to helping New Yorkers get back to work. E-mail your questions to [email protected]. Follow Greg on Twitter: @greggiangrande and at GoToGreg.com