Boss Hires Employee, Then Disappears

BASICS. And the next time you're up for an interview, never leave the interview -- especially one that ends with you being hired -- without knowing the first and last name of the interviewer, the interviewer's job title and the job title of the position for which you're competing or have been hired. Confirm that the interviewer is the manager to whom you would report; if not, determine the name of your new boss.

DEAR JOYCE: After going through a couple of jobs that were soured by bad bosses, I'm wondering how to get a lead on small companies before I make another mistake. Without using a computer, how can I check out a place before applying? -- R.S.

The ask-around method might work if you have a circle of friends with whom you can begin your research. Or, if you're a good schmoozer, you can show up at the lunch hour or after work at restaurants and watering holes where the targeted company's employees hang out.