Exec shouts at intern during meeting

Dear Harriette: I am doing an internship at an energy company, and I am working on a solo project. I have been taking my time because this is my first internship, and I want to make a good impression. This week, I was sitting in a meeting with a lot of senior executives, and my boss’s boss started screaming at me because I was taking too long on my project. I was trying so hard to hold back the tears, but unfortunately, a few slipped out during the meeting because I was so upset that he would call me out in front of all the employees so high up in the company, even though I was trying my hardest to complete the project. I was also confused because I was told that I needed to have the project finished a week before my internship ends, which is two weeks from now. Do you think I should address this with someone in the company or keep quiet since I am just an intern? — Vulnerable Intern

Dear Vulnerable Intern:

Speak to your boss. Ask for advice on how you might have handled yourself differently in that meeting. Request support on completing the assignment and making a good overall impression. Inquire as to whether his boss is often harsh like he was to you, and find out what other employees do when he snaps like that.

You should also know that this man’s behavior toward you was witnessed by the others in the room. Though people may not have commented — since he is the big boss — how he spoke to you didn’t go unnoticed. Learn from the situation. Do your best, and keep it moving.

Dear Harriette: Seeing my best friend with my ex-boyfriend as his new lover hurts me deeply. The emotions that arise from this situation are overwhelming, and I am struggling to cope with the pain and betrayal. It is challenging to witness someone I care about moving on with my former partner, as it stirs up feelings of loss, jealousy and heartache. I am torn between wanting to express my feelings and preserving the friendships that mean so much to me, and I am unsure of how to move forward in a way that honors my emotions while also respecting the choices of those involved. — Betrayed by Love, Torn by Loyalty

Dear Betrayed by Love, Torn by Loyalty:

I’m sorry, but your “best friend” is not acting like a bestie right now. There used to be unwritten codes of conduct around who close friends can date. For sure, people should not date their best friend’s exes. That simply is not acceptable, and it should be understood. You should confront your best friend about why she made that choice and what she thought it would do to your friendship. Be clear with her that you consider her actions to be a betrayal of trust and honor.