Season of Sharing - what do I do when my coworker is clearly overworked?

Anonymous

November 12,2021 at 2:35PM UTC

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Season of Sharing - what do I do when my coworker is clearly overworked?

One of my coworkers seems to be working far too much. He's always online late at night and makes comments about his bandwidth in side conversations. It's not that someone else on the team is slacking, but seems like our manager is putting too much on his plate. We need more support and I want to help him but I don't know how to bring it up. Any advice??

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AnonymousNovember 12,2021 at 3:40PM UTC
I am your overworked coworker. The suggestion to ASK is huge. “Hey - you seem like you have a lot on your plate - are you managing ok? Are there discrete tasks I can pick up for you? Need an ear?” Goes a long way.
AnonymousNovember 12,2021 at 5:06PM UTC
First off has he asked for your help? If not offer to help him escalate his issue with his workload. If you're going to speak on the behalf of him or your team make sure you receive buying.
I understand your heart is in the right place but you may be taking on the advocate role and it might not be ok with others.
AnonymousNovember 14,2021 at 1:32PM UTC
The OP’s concern is admirable but please consider drawing unnecessary attention to yourself by escalating this workload issue on behalf of the coworker. The OP will undoubtedly open herself to scrutiny and liability and could be perceived as the office “hall monitor.” Another option is to continue to be a good friend, offer encouraging words when appropriate and stay in your own lane! The late-night email responses are a choice. That’s a boundary issue your coworker had full ownership for. This is a grown man who also has the ability to raise these exact concerns with your manager. Please, tread lightly on this one!
Aubrey ArmesNovember 12,2021 at 11:00PM UTC
Definitely talk to him about it. From a place of care and concern, let him know you've observed XYZ and you are concerned for him. Remind him/give him permission that's it's ok to ask for help and to talk to his boss about his high workload. It's not a weakness, but rather a very responsible thing to do as the current status isn't sustainable.