Q: What can we do about a co-worker who loudly snacks on crunchy food and eats warmed-up meals that stink up the whole area? We're in a group of cubicles, so her behavior is very distracting.

A: Does your company have a break room? If so, your goal is to get your munching co-worker to eat there.

Team up with other offended colleagues and talk to your boss or human resources manager. If you go as a group, management is less likely to view this as a trivial matter.

Explain that frequent food noises and pervasive odors are creating an unpleasant work environment. Then request that someone in management direct your hungry colleague to the official eating location.

Q: I work in a hospital as a respiratory therapist. If I apply for another position here, human resources will send an automatic e-mail to my director. The policy also says that I must let her know if I am invited to interview.

Because I have a management degree and several years of supervisory experience, I am hoping to get a management position. Should I tell my boss that I plan to apply for other jobs?

A: Broadcasting an external job search is politically stupid, but an internal search is a different matter. Your manager needs to hear about it from you, not via the grapevine or an unexpected e-mail from HR. "Never surprise your boss" is a basic workplace commandment.

Managers tend to take it personally if they feel that employees want to escape from them. But, having sought advancement themselves, they usually understand the desire to be promoted.

Talk with your boss about your interest in management, and remind her of your qualifications.

Ask her to suggest strategies for achieving your goal. She may enjoy being a mentor and may put in a good word for you.

If you fear that your manager will not be supportive, ask your human resources specialist for help. I guarantee that you will not be the first person to raise this issue.

- Marie G. McIntyre is an Atlanta-based workplace coach. Her weekly column is syndicated by Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service. Send questions at www.yourofficecoach.com.