I have worked at my current job for about a year and a half now as an administrative assistant and I've reached a personal boiling point. I work for a nonprofit, and although I am assigned to help a project on the program side of the organization, I report to my office manager, who is also our HR manager. There is also an admin lead, who although does not review or accept my timecard, has become the right hand of my office manager.
It's no secret at my job that the team I assist stress me out. Everyone knows. It's mainly the projects manager, but there are other team members that also stress me out. I sometimes receive tasks that go past the deadline I requested, and sometimes the turnaround time on tasks can be unrealistic. We've been doing a lot of virtual events, and although I am now getting the hang of things, it was a pretty stressful learning curve. Despite the stress, I do like my team. They mean well, I think they're just overworked.
I had a check in with my office manager and the admin lead about a few weeks ago, and they've asked me to compile a task list of everything I do, who assigns me these tasks, and how long it takes me. I have already submitted a task list over a month ago to them, but that list didn't ask for specifics. I'm always being encouraged to "manage up" at my job, so I had directly discussed with my admin lead that I did not want to submit this list if it was a matter of needing to manage up to my team. (Did I mention we had three people quit within a three month span, and one of them was the director of the project? Yeah... ha) I have a new team, and I'd like the opportunity to work things out with them. The admin lead's response was that this was something I could discuss with my office manager and her. I didn't respond because, well, to be honest I was annoyed. I'd rather just speak to my office manager; the admin lead's insistence in this makes me uncomfortable, because it feels to me like I have another boss. I'm sorry, but I answer to so many people already (team is currently at 12 people), and I am not comfortable with having another boss. Because I didn't reply, at our admin weekly meeting our CFO asked us to complete the task list for allocation purposes and used the example of "if it looks like you're spending more time on a project than before, we would want to allocate that time to you". From my point of view, she or my office manager asked the CFO to make this request. I'm at 90% allocation to my project right now, so my first thought was that they were trying to review my tasks to give to another admin. Although I've been told I'm not the only person they've requested for this task list, I know they're not asking all the admins.
I completed the task list on Friday, and was told yesterday I needed to be more specific about how long I spend on things a week. We had our weekly meeting yesterday as well, where we were told allocations have been completed and sent to the project directors. Learning that has made me confirm my anxiety about this not being able allocations. I don't know for sure what this is about anymore, but it feels shady.
I want to quit so bad. I go back and forth between putting in two weeks to a month notice, but I am equally scared of this job market. I've never left a job without securing a job first; this would be the first time doing so. I've been applying, but there's no telling how long this could take. I don't know what to do; the stress is effecting my sleep, and I'm crying pretty often now.
Update: I am
My question is: any advice?
Update:
I am overwhelmed by the amount of responses I received, thank you so much. I appreciate the insight and advice, quite a few of you helped me shift perspective. This job is stressful during a stressful time. I have been applying to more jobs, and I will continue to do so.
41 Comments
41 Comments
Jacquelyn Lloyd
537
HR Consultant
11/04/20 at 2:27PM UTC
Hi Monica - I'm not clearon what your issue is with exactly - the Lead, the turnover or the workload?
I can tell you when someone is designated as a Lead - they probably have the authority to direct your work, but not to discipline you. It's a pity that wasn't communicated more clearly - you should just ask your supervisor. No matter their intentions you aren't doing yourself any favors by being passive aggressive (not responding.) I think you need to get really clear on whatever it is that is stressing you out - then speak with your supervisor. It sounds (and I could be way off here) that they recognize the challenges and are trying to redistribute the work. Give it an actual chance before you bail. You're right - it's easier to find a job when you have a job.
Best wishes!
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User deleted comment on 11/05/20 at 6:11PM UTC
Malissa
619
Controller in the Agricultural Industry.
11/04/20 at 3:52PM UTC
I can see your frustration. You have been asked to do a lot of things and nobody is communicating why. Sit down with the lead and the office manager. Have that conversation. Also complete things that are requested of you, no matter where they come from.
At this point seeming adversarial could actually harm you future. Asking for clarity and understanding could help you out.
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Deanna McKay
15
11/04/20 at 3:59PM UTC
This kind of a situation can happen very easily when lots of change occurs at once, just like has happened during this pandemic. One thing you may want to ask for is an organizational chart since it seems that many people are tasking you with items, but perhaps these items should not be pushed over to you. Being clear about the process of when and who can ask you for assistance on a task is important, and then you can go back to those specific managers to get feedback and explain if there are further issues with the projects.
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Claire Rodriguez
16
11/04/20 at 4:32PM UTC
Hi love! I have been in this position a few times in my work/life experience. I can only make suggestions based on my experience, but just know that you are not alone. First and foremost, trust your intuition. Second, reach out, which you’ve done. Third, write down the pros and cons of the job. Fourth, make a plan if you make the decision to quit. Ask yourself if you have the funds to float yourself until a new job? Maybe you need to go on interviews until the next job. One of my bosses at my current job was having conflict with our manager and he made the decision to apply to jobs and leave ours. So be realistic, be ready. You got this. Hope that helps!
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msvdb31
17
11/04/20 at 5:05PM UTC
There is a lot going on it seems. I am sorry you find yourself in this what must seem endless situation. From experience I can share that honesty and transparency with yourself and your direct supervisor go a long way. Try to get clear for yourself what your top 3 issues are in the job what causes them and how you propose to resolve that. If these lead to a discussion with your supervisor, go for it. Is there somebody else in the company you trust and can discuss this with? Taking charge of your job, your career will make you feel empowered and doing so is what managing up is also about. Good luck!
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Katrina McNair
2.71k
Site Director and Online Educator
11/04/20 at 8:11PM UTC
Hello Anon,
I would suggest centering yourself before making any decision. Any decision you make to leave or stay will impact you. One will be more significant than the other. I would also write down a list of pros and cons for staying and leaving. Which ever one has more pros is the one that would cause you less stress and pain. I will also say to go with your gut feeling. It will never steer you wrong. I hope this is helpful information for you.
Sincerely,
Katrina
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Karisa Karmali
797
Founder of Self-Love and Fitness
11/04/20 at 9:49PM UTC
Your income is more important than these people.
Ground & center your nervous system, then map out the operations and projects timelines of your role and see where the pieces fit.
Unless there are illegal practices happening, try to get another job first.
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Abigail Church
97
Organizational Development Professional
11/06/20 at 1:47PM UTC
Hi!
This sounds like a pretty overwhelming place to work. I agree with previous posts that point out many of us experienced this sort of confusion, overwhelm, and overload when the pandemic hit. I also realize this may be how the organization functions even when we aren't in the midst of a pandemic.
I think it's important to remain communicative and to deliver the items you're being asked to deliver. As another stated, not complying could cause more harm than good.
I'd like to share that I just left an executive role in the organization I was working for because I quickly came to the conclusion that I couldn't continue to function in the environment the pandemic created. I did this without another job lined up and it was my first time doing so. I've been unemployed for about a week now and have found my stress levels are nonexistent and it's much easier to identify what I want my next chapter to look like. It may take me a bit to find what I'm looking for, but for me that was a better choice than continuing to exist in an environment I didn't look forward to entering on a daily basis. This may or may not be true for you as well.
User edited comment on 11/06/20 at 4:35PM UTC
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1 Reply
DIANE TEMMEN
70
I am here to help you be the best you can be!
11/06/20 at 2:18PM UTC
I also left a job at a non-profit that I loved....until new management. Three new bosses. None had the same goals. After a year and a half of this toxic environment, I resigned. A total of 17 years of my life spent there.
I have lost 20 pounds of stress weight. My chiropractor and massage therapist can tell a HUGE difference in my back issues. My friends say I am happier!
Stress does a lot to our bodies. You have to decide what is best for your family. Some jobs that I applied for in May are just getting back to me. You need a backup plan, if you decide to leave. I am finding great comfort in starting my own business.
Only you can decide what is best. I wish you luck!
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Cyndy Trivella
77
Managing Partner, Media & Marketing Consultancy
11/06/20 at 1:53PM UTC
Like Jacquelyn Lloyd, I, too am unclear of the issue. I may be off base but it sounds like you're juggling many balls and have projects/assignments with similar deadlines.
I suggest having a heart-to-heart discussion with the person who is your direct supervisor. Bring your list of assignments, who assigned them, the time required to complete each and the deadlines. You may even request that all assignments be brought to your immediate supervisor so this person can allocate the project or re-evaluate the project based on what is needed and assign them to you based on your current workload and what is realistic. If you have various people coming to you requesting your help, they most likely are unaware of what you're currently working on and will assume you can get things done when they need it. Having one person (immediate supervisor) "traffic" your workload will help alleviate some of this stress.
Good luck!
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 2PM UTC
Hi there, I'm saying this in love, but it may come off hashly. You jumped to about 3-4 conclusions in the question above. You have to believe that people want what's best for you. If they asked you to compile a list, it's likely because they literally don't know what you do and who's asking you to do it, and as the people who allocate resources, they want to make sure you're focused on the right tasks for the right people. If everyone knows you're stressed, that's not good. You shouldn't be stressed at work. I think you have to either choose to believe that they want what's best for you, or remain unhappy, overworked and stressed. This is not a criticism of you. It's just an observation, based on the situation you presented. And I was able to take the emotion out of it, because it's not my situation. I wish you a happy work life and coworkers you love. We spend too much time at work to be unfulfilled there. Take care!
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Diane
31
11/09/20 at 3:56PM UTC
I agree totally with this comment. I would also add that you may need to learn new coping skills. Think of all of this as a learning opportunity. It's your relationship to what you perceive as adversity that is causing the problems. I say you should go with the flow and provide the information that's requested, and as others have said communication is key. Also, try to be aware of any negative speak, which will only bring you down and increase your anxiety. Good luck!
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Kerry Flynn Barrett
11
The Nurse of HR
11/06/20 at 2:01PM UTC
Good morning! What is clear to me is that you are NOT happy! Life is too short to be functioning in a role where you are so frustrated. However, this company does continue to give you additional duties, so perhaps they have great faith in you. This might be a perspective you haven't considered. You need to assess what you need for yourself and your career.
Best of luck!
Kerry
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 2:14PM UTC
I can't think of one other professional woman that has the luxury to ignore requests from their supervisor like you've detailed above! The job stresses you out, the team stresses you out and you make no effort to temper that or get your emotions under control. Maybe your boss is asking you for a list of tasks because you come off as unapproachable and petulant. You were told to connect with a supervisor about 'managing up' but you ignored that request, too. This entire post lacks insight, you have absolutely no awareness of your role or responsibility in this toxic work environment. Virtual meetings and technology are difficult to learn, I get it, but join the club. In this job market, there will be a line of people behind you that will gladly take this position, welcome the introduction to new technology, and will happily provide a detail of work load to demonstrate value to the team. Please, listen to the message that is being delivered to you in so many different ways: they're asking you for a detail of workload, time spent on projects, and they're scrutinizing your relationship with co-workers and managers. Do yourself a favor and aggressively start to look for another job.
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Rebecca Lee V
2.11k
Credentialing Specialist
11/06/20 at 2:14PM UTC
I will say this, when a manager or supervisor is asking you to write down what you do and how long it takes, that is never a good sign.
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April Mastroluca
19
Nonprofit Executive Director/Public Speaker
11/06/20 at 2:55PM UTC
As a nonprofit executive, I will respectfully disagree. I have to give a similar breakdown to my auditor for each staff position on a yearly basis. It is not an unusual request.
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Rebecca Lee V
2.11k
Credentialing Specialist
11/06/20 at 3:04PM UTC
but they are asking her to do the repeatedly, just not once a year. And she is refusing to do this.
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 4:40PM UTC
In the project world it’s not unusual to report time spent on activities. I am asked to record and report my time daily. It helps show what I’m spending time on and any available bandwidth that I have.
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Joycelyn M. Siame
158
Experienced Admin.
11/06/20 at 2:20PM UTC
I say communication is key. The only person to truly advocate for you is you. Voice your concerns to your Office Manager (the best person since she is also HR) and who ever is the Lead on the projects that you do. By not speaking up and giving everyone queues that you are stressed doesn't help anything in the office and may reflect poorly on you, even though I don' t blame you for how you are feeling. I think the point of the constant task list is to try to make everything flow better in the office, to make sure everything is delegated accordingly. For your anxiety and depression, reach out to a therapist, or maybe there is a mentor type person in your life you can speak with? Talking things out and reflecting on everything can lead to a clearer mind and will help you with what next steps you should take. I've purchased this deck from a company called Best Self that helps in the situation. It works like journal entries almost and helps to think things through, especially if you have no one to talk to. If at the end of all of this you are still stressed and not happy, look for something else. I just left my job in October, taking a leap of faith and scared, but within a few weeks I got a job... It's possible to find work, so don't lose hope. Your mental health is what matters most. I'm sorry for this long rambling post, but hopefully this helps. Keep your head up :-).
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aeane
77
11/06/20 at 2:23PM UTC
I have had a similar situation at my job. There was a situation when, without going into specifics, we were required to do something very rare, so no one actually knew how to do it right. At the end, since it was somewhat similar to what we usually do, somehow, it was managed. We talked about it to the management and what we got, two weeks later, through e-mail, a disclaimer to sign, which said that if any of us in the future would not know how to do this rare and unheard of before thing or any other rare and unheard before thing, we would be let go.
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MJ
304
Accounting consultant
11/06/20 at 2:23PM UTC
Document everything you do. Could they be discriminating you for age, race, religion or anything else? If any errors are due to someone else make sure it's documented and save for yourself. You are going to need it for the board of labor or your lawyer.
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 7:36PM UTC
Discrimination? How about insubordination! Not one thing about this post suggests this woman is being treated differently because of her age, race, or religion. Is she being targeted because she's argumentative and defiant, yes! This is a lazy default approach to suggest discrimination, this board is better than that.
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Kerry Roper
55
11/06/20 at 8:32PM UTC
I agree, this board IS better than that. It's much too easy to suggest someone is being discriminated against, when there is nothing in her post to indicate it, but anyone can see, why work hard or gain marketable skills, when you can spend endless hours in court pursuing nonsense lawsuits?
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 2:27PM UTC
Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever encountered a non-profit that had their ducks in a row like they imagined themselves to ... duh! Reality check, please. This one sounds like a freakin’ nightmare.
If you have the goods (the inclination to lead), go to who appears to be “at the top” and tell them they need to get it together.
You can remind them:
1) Confusion leads to good people leaving.
2) Multiple micro-managers leads to poor allocation of resources and waste.
3) Offer up what you’re willing and capable of doing to help with the solution.
Your leadership will either be appreciated or not and if it’s not, it’s time to move on.
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Chrishogg
276
11/06/20 at 2:38PM UTC
Hi Anon ---
It’s so easy to sit on this side of your situation and offer advice and guidance, because, of course, we commenters don’t have the full story, don’t know the details, don’t have input from all involved, and so, basically, we’re pretty much guessing. Just thought I should mention this in case what I say here seems harsh.
Your account here reminds me of the movie, Cool Hand Luke, and its famous line, “What we've got here is failure to communicate.”
It seems to me that you’re in a bad situation and it’s obvious that you’re frustrated and upset (been there, done that).
But you may (emphasizing may) be contributing more to the situation than you realize.
For example, you write, “It's no secret at my job that the team I assist stress me out. Everyone knows” and I wonder how or why everyone knows; are you verbally communicating that, complaining, or through your body language telling everyone you’re stressed out? And if so, have you shared that, directly, in-person, with your boss(es)?
You also write, “I have already submitted a task list over a month ago to them, but that list didn't ask for specifics,” “I did not want to submit this list,” “I have a new team, and I'd like the opportunity to work things out with them. The admin lead's response was that this was something I could discuss with my office manager and her. I didn't respond because, well, to be honest I was annoyed,” “I'd rather just speak to my office manager,” “From my point of view, she or my office manager asked the CFO to make this request,” “I completed the task list on Friday, and was told yesterday I needed to be more specific about how long I spend on things a week.”
From these quotes it sounds to me (and again, just guessing here) that folks are trying to reach out to you, are trying to communicate, but that you are not responding in kind. It sounds like you not only don’t want to do what you’re being asked to do, but that in fact you’re not doing it. The most telling quote for me was, “I didn't respond because, well, to be honest I was annoyed.”
Someone else in this thread mentioned passive-aggressive, and I’m kind of getting the same feeling. It seems like your position has become give me what I want, how I want it, in the manner I want it, or I’m going to shut down and make you guess what’s bothering me until you get it right.
If I and the other commenter are even close to being correct, it’s a sure thing that your co-workers and boss(es) are getting the same sense, and are thinking the same thing … and that’s never a good thing.
So, what to do?
If it were me, I’d put on the brakes, take a day or two to decompress, take a day or two to get in touch with my feelings and try to write out, in no more than 2 or 3 sentences, exactly what is troubling me and why, and then take another two days to write out (not think about, but write it down) how I would like things to be, how I would like to communicate in an ideal world with my co-workers and boss(es). During this period, I would honestly and courageously ask myself, what am I doing that is contributing to this situation; when have people reached out to me and I've purposely not responded or not responded as they asked me to?
And then, make an appointment with your boss(es), lay it all out, confess your role in making things difficult (we all have a role, none of us are entirely blameless), and ask for a re-start.
It’s difficult, it’s scary, and it’s often threatening … but true communication is always a two-way street, and it always takes two people (at least) to make it work … or as we said back in the day, it takes two to tango.
If things continue as they are, and if I'm correct here, you may not have to worry about finding a new job ... someone there may make that decision for you, and fairly soon.
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User deleted comment on 11/13/20 at 5PM UTC
Sue
242
Seasoned Sr Treasury Coordinator, Sr Exec Asst
11/06/20 at 2:56PM UTC
Could the other admin, who is the right hand person to your manager, be the issue? I know when Admins are involved (have been one for many years +20, mainly Executive Assistant, but we start at the bottom) when another admin starts to manage you, especially when it is not clearly communicated to you - it can lead to issues of control. Like "why is she over me when she is the same title as me"? Also if they are seeming to micro-manage - that in itself can be dangerous. I know I do not do my best in a micro-managed position.
Think long and hard as to what the issue(s) is/are. Look deep at what you are willing to accommodate for your sanity on the job. Lastly look to see if the grass is greener on the otherside.
Good luck.
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Christine Ibanez
96
11/06/20 at 3:10PM UTC
TL;DR. Quit. Find something new. Stop whining, and polish up that resume.
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Anonymous
11/06/20 at 7:37PM UTC
Finally, some straight talk express in this post! Thank you!
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Resa Baudoin
22
Nonprofit Executive in Charlotte, NC
11/06/20 at 3:12PM UTC
I’ve worked nonprofits for years. Here’s my advice. Keep applying until you find another job. They don’t have it together and in my experience with where they’re at in the process it’s going to take a while. They know there are problems that resulted in turnover. Just fill out the time forms. They know their management is inefficient and the time forms may end up helping you. This economy for nonprofits is tough, so hang in there until you find something else. Just look at everything you do as something that will help the organization in the future. Leave it better than when you found it.
User edited comment on 11/06/20 at 3:14PM UTC
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Jessica Parker, PMP
69
♦ Technology Leader ♦ Author ♦ Entrepreneur ♦
11/06/20 at 3:35PM UTC
Flip the script a little on the request for a list of tasks and think of it as an opportunity to communicate the volume of work you do each week. One strategy I've used with management is to have a weekly status report that includes what I did the previous week (along with status of those items), what I have projected out the next 1 week to 30 days (depends on how far out I have information), and a list of any issues/concerns. By communicating more clearly what you have to do and where there may be risks of work not getting completed due to volume, priorities, etc., you are opening the door to be able to find solutions. For example, when you provide a deadline, do you also provide the impact of missing that deadline? I've had roles where I was dependent on others for inputs in order to move forward. When this was a risk, I would clearly state the impact, like for each day delay past that deadline, my dependent deliverable would be delayed by 1 day. That reduced my stress level and clearly communicated to everyone that delays by others impact the whole project, which also shifts the conversation to focus on the right part of the process.
When you make it known to everyone how unhappy or stressed you are, that unfortunately makes it appear to others that you are someone who complains a lot (whether it is justified or not). That is not going to reflect well upon your personal brand.
In addition, what you focus on expands. So if you focus on how stressed you are, your brain will be looking for more examples of things that cause you stress. Are you able to take a step back and find things that you enjoy about your work? Sometimes taking a vacation (at least a week) can refresh your perspective.
If you decide it's time to leave, be sure to make your exit plan. Your exit plan should include a transition plan document for your current role, identification of what your ideal next job looks like, and what steps you will take to find that job.
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Rosa Goes
126
11/06/20 at 3:39PM UTC
I would say if you are "always encouraged" to manage up, then you have more power than you think. My advice is take that challenge and give it your best. With allocations going on and a new team in place, there is potential for you to shine.
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Heidi Trace
33
11/06/20 at 3:50PM UTC
I agree with the comments above suggesting you comply with their request for more details on your job duties and the time it takes to complete them. Their response to your report will be very telling and quickly inform your decision as to whether or not it is time to leave. Who knows, they could offer you the help you need and take the stress off! If not, get out as soon as you can.
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Beverly Ruyle
70
11/06/20 at 7:20PM UTC
You are crying, it's time to "fight or flight". That everyone knows your stressed and asking you to articulate your workload means one of 2 things - either they want to really help you or they want to be prepared as they think your departure is imminent. You must decide, take a deep breath and communicate/advocate for yourself.
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Tiffany Kummer
40
11/06/20 at 9:32PM UTC
This part of your post really concerns me: "It's no secret at my job that the team I assist stress me out. Everyone knows. It's mainly the projects manager, but there are other team members that also stress me out. I sometimes receive tasks that go past the deadline I requested, and sometimes the turnaround time on tasks can be unrealistic." Your manager can and should know that you are stressed, especially in a culture that values managing up. No one else at work should know this. I think you can stay through finding another role, and that should be top priority for you. You will also need to carefully consider how you frame and what you share about this current experience in your upcoming interview processes.
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Michele
13
11/06/20 at 10:34PM UTC
Never leave a job without first securing another one. The country is so unstable right now there’s no telling how long it could take since there is a lot more competition. I would hit the job market hard with a resume that not only lists your experience but your accomplishments as well. That seems to be a big thing right now. Also customize your resume to the job you are applying for and try to hit key words as many employers are using electronic scanning system that look for key words and automatically reject your resume before it is ever seen by a human. When you go on interviews don’t did list your struggles with your current employer when they ask why you are leaving that company . Good luck!
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Marisol Caballero
48
You can lead and still be humble
11/07/20 at 3:35AM UTC
Hi,
After reading your post, it seems there is more than one issue going on. Ask yourself if that is a culture you fit it and want to continue working in. Also, is there room for change and improvement at your current job? If you find, change is probably not going to happen, I recommend looking for another job because you will find yourself in the same situation over and over again.
I’d like to also give you constructive feedback on how you have handled the request. I know you were upset and it’s normal; I’ve been there and done that. Just keep in mind that you are building your brand, whether good or bad, and leave an impression. As upsetting as it may be, sometimes we have to play the role and make sure that the toxicity isn’t rolled over into your work ethic. This may or may not work well for you at this job but it’s important to continue doing your best; not for them but for you. If you decide this role gives you more stress than benefits, keep looking for work while still being employed.
Keep in mind that there are issues everywhere you go. It’s really about what you are willing to compromise and tolerate. The key is finding that balance in which you are fulfilled with what you do and being able to navigate and shrug off some of the office politics.
Best of luck to you.
Marisol
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LORI-ANN BURLINGAME
378
11/07/20 at 3:51PM UTC
I feel your pain. I have worked on projects for non-profits and they were so disorganized. The in-fighting among team members complicated everything. And, without strong leadership, there is little anyone can do.
You have a good spirit and a good heart, but it may be time for you to put yourself first.
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Retired happy
463
11/10/20 at 9:53AM UTC
Perhaps a nonprofit environment isn't a right fit for you? What is your other experience? Perhaps the public sector with more structure and defined roles would-be better?
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Anonymous
11/10/20 at 4:44PM UTC
Did you have a good relationship with any of the three people that left? Did they go to new jobs? Reach out (trying really hard not to bash your current company because they probably weren’t happy if they left.). One of them may know of an opening at their new company.
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Maryann Augusta
86
Consultant
11/12/20 at 4:26AM UTC
Non-profits are not the easiest places to work for especially if you’re reporting to multiple people. But first let me say as a previous ED of a nonprofit, asking for a list of your duties and time spent on them seems like info they need for their yearly budget planning and reporting for any grant funding they receive.
Next, I’d recommend you take “you” out of the equation. They are not doing anything to you. You’re doing it to yourself. If you can’t work handling multiple projects with multiple people, maybe you need to find a position that fits your working style better. Not everyone is made to work on a team & juggle multiple projects. There’s nothing wrong in that. It’s just not a good fit. And yes you’ll be stressed.
Next ask yourself what exactly you’re having a problem with? Is it the work? The accountability? Multiple supervisors? Or team leaders? Deadlines?
You see everything is just our perception. Our perception is based on our previous experiences. That’s how we interpret what’s happening around us. So take time to reflect on your previous experiences to determine where your reactions are coming from. Once you know that, you can respond, rather than react to the situation. When I’m in reacting mode it’s because I’m stressed and feel like I’m being treated unfairly. When I’m clear about my job duties and who I report to and work with I can more easily respond rather than react. Whenever you respond to a situation or people you’re in a much better place. A more proactive place. When you’re coming from a proactive place you’ll feel better about yourself and won’t feel like you’re being taken advantage of.
It’s easy to quit and walk away. But before you do this, I’d like to see you work through it for growth. Then if you’ve given it your all and can’t salvage the situation or realize it’s just not a good fit for you, move on knowing you made the right decision for you. Feel better!
Reply
Martha McAfee
14
11/12/20 at 9:22PM UTC
Hi,
I certainly understand your frustration, it seems that there are actually two issues here. The first is the "two bosses." The second is the task list.
It sounds like communication is an issue at the non-profit. I have worked for and with non-profits of all shapes and sizes and this is a common problem . Frequently, this is primarily due to understaffing, which sounds like may be the case here.
Let me address the task list first. The fact that the CFO is asking for the task allocation list tells me this is not about who is doing what, but identifying how much time each person is spending on each project. The reason he would be asking for this is to ensure that payroll is being charged appropriately to different gift and/or grant funds or other revenue streams.
When a non-profit receives a gift and the donor specifies that it is to support a specific project, then that money can only be spent on that project. For most non-profits, the single largest expense is payroll which makes it essential to identify how much time can be charged to that fund.
The issue of two bosses is more difficult because you are dealing with a relationship triangle - you, the office manager, and the admin. Since the office manager is your boss of record, I would ask her directly for a one-on-one conversation. Tell her that you are getting conflicting messages and feel like you have multiple bosses. Ask her to clarify the lines of reporting, particularly on those occasions where two people are both asking for something, which should be your "top priority." This is part of "managing up." If 90% of your time is dedicated to the project, then those tasks should take priority. It terms of managing up, it is largely asking more questions. When someone asks you to do something, ask them:
When do you need this by?
Is this something that must be done before a project can proceed? (In other words, Does progress stop until this is done?)
Another key aspect of managing up is letting those who are asking you to complete tasks know when, realistically, you can do it. Another way of thinking about managing up is that it allows you more autonomy in your job. Most non-profits have an "all hands on deck" aspect to them, and it is up to each person to manage their time to accomplish their job. This means if someone says "I need this by end of day" and it is 3:30 in the afternoon, you will have to determine if that is something you can actually do. Is it last minute because it is something urgent that just came up? Or is it last minute because the person put it off until the last minute and is now dumping it on you?
This means you need to actually ask them questions such as: I have several other items that I am working on at the moment. Can you tell me why this is so urgent?
If you are looking for a job where you go to work, do what you are told, and then go home, a non-profit will not be a good fit for you. If, on the other hand, you are looking to grow both professionally and personally, then it can be an excellent environment. I would highly recommend finding a mentor - someone you trust, who can help you expand your view of what is going on in the organization. This does not need to be someone who actually works for the non-profit, but given the unique aspects of non-profits should be someone who is familiar with them.
I hope this helps.
Reply
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