Subcontractor for a small firm. Associate (also a contractor) He will be taking a few weeks off for vacation.

5 Comments

1. JB09718September 6,2024 at 4:54AM UTC

   Assuming you report to her too, I would come to the meeting with a list of all current projects, their status and timelines. If she passes you coworker’s work, ask her to what will be removed from your current list to make room for the new tasks. If she says do it all, tell her she needs to prioritize the list. Bottom projects will have to fall to the wayside which will be hard but if customers complain it will be due to her decision.

   Should also note I have little/no experience with contract work but i would dig through your contract to see if there’s anything written about number of projects, working hours, etc. that you can use to also argue against the additional work. She can’t override that!

2. AnonymousSeptember 7,2024 at 12:51AM UTC

   Thanks for your suggestions... helpful!

3. AnonymousSeptember 6,2024 at 12:23PM UTC

   Take what you're currently working on to the meeting, and you are so incorrect to assume that the owner should play this role. They own the company and employ and trust others to support the needs of the business. Yes, ideally they should know how to do every part of the business, but they don't and that's okay as long as they are open to listening on desk traffic concerns. I used to run a catering company and the owner of the company would pop into events and either empty trash or help with dishes, that is where their skill set was, and it was extremely helpful. Never shut down and say no, but provide a clear with all information picture of what you're currently working on and let them make that decision on what you can and can't pause on. As you know, they're the owner. The life of a subcontractor, as I'm confident you are aware, it super chaotic at times and super important.

4. AnonymousSeptember 7,2024 at 12:57AM UTC

   Keep in mind I am a subcontractor to this firm and provide my services to another firm. The owner most definitely has the skill set to do these tasks.... she started the business from the inception...and has plenty of free time.....You know the saying, if you work hard enough at your job, you get to do other peoples work too. I will be prepared to discuss what I am working on My view is it should not be expected that I do his work. and I understand your opinion. Thank yoy.

5. AnonymousSeptember 9,2024 at 11:53AM UTC

   Sounds like you're going to struggle. If it's a full time commitment you shouldn't have any other commitments getting in the way. We hire subcontractors all the time, and they are a support staff to take on overflow. I also agree that the expectation of the owner is not to be assumed nor is it your call, it's their company, and you may want to revisit the wording in your contract, that may support an understanding from the company as well.