Worker fears retribution from incident

Dear Harriette: While rummaging through my purse for something, I inadvertently dropped my BlackBerry into the bathroom sink. There was a lot of water in the sink, and now the device doesn’t work anymore. I tried blow-drying it, letting it sit overnight, everything. But it’s dead. I am afraid to tell my boss. I can only imagine how upset he’s going to be. The thing is, I can’t just go out and buy a new device, even if I wanted to. This one is registered with the company. How can I tell my boss without having to endure his wrath? — Laura, Detroit, Mich.

Dear Laura: Be honest and up front. Explain that you mistakenly dropped the BlackBerry in the sink, and it no longer works. Ask him how you should proceed. You can tell him you are willing to pay for a new device. But chances are the company has insurance for matters like this.

Apologize for the accident, and ask him to help you figure out how to replace your device. Trust that this is not the first time such a mishap has occurred.

Dear Harriette: I was invited to a black-tie affair for my job, and it’s a big deal. I am excited to go, but there are two issues that trouble me. First, it is black tie, but they’re not allowing me to bring my husband. My mother always taught me that a lady doesn’t go to a black-tie affair alone. I don’t have an appropriate dress. I hardly ever go to dress-up functions. Would it be crazy to buy a dress during these lean times? — Beverly, Salt Lake City

Dear Beverly: First, it may be that the organizer has filled all the seats at the table with other colleagues and/or other guests. There may not be room for you to bring a guest. Yes, your mother’s wisdom is the standard, but in a work setting often the rules shift. If you have been invited to go, consider the invitation a privilege and figure out how you can do it.

Because the economy is tight, many retailers are hosting sales on merchandise, including deep discounts on formal attire. Shop around. Once you select a gown or other formal ensemble, begin to negotiate.