Dear Amy: What were you thinking?

I couldn't disagree more with your answer to Miserable (October 2008). All the management courses I've taken and subsequent articles I've read state a chain of command must exist and be supported by all levels of management. The only reason a subordinate should jump the chain is if his or her manager is suspected of illegal activity or sexual harassment. As that was not the case in Miserable's situation, she should keep her opinion of her manager's job performance to herself—or she can quit. I'm very lucky to be supported in my position. When team members vent to the owners about a decision I've made, they often hear, "she has her reasons." I always hear the complaints anyway, but my position as manager is supported.

Barbara Clingman, practice manager Small Animal Hospital Milwaukee, Wis.

Click here to read Amy's response to this letter.