Is it just me or does everyone deal with this kind of thing? To get ahead at work, it feels like you have to kiss up to the department head. She doesn’t really like other women and on top of that, she...

Hi Julia,

You have asked a couple of career critical questions. No, you don't have to kiss up to your HoD to get ahead at work. What you need to be... smart about is to work in their interest so long as those interests serve the organisation.
I see what you are describing here as leadership that stinks of self-centredness. They don't last. Other seniors in the organisation are watching - all who kiss up to her and you who are working , truly.
So keep up with your work in diligence. My personal note: learn as much as you can because your next role might just be steps ahead of what you hold now.

As for the more work, ensure it doesn't get in the way of your health. So long as you are okay delivering work that gets the business going, tell yourself it is a season. And make the most out of it in terms of learning for the opportunities that I can see will line up for you soon.

Enjoy. more