A sign to jump ship already?

Anonymous

November 14,2022 at 8:24PM UTC

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A sign to jump ship already?

When I joined (TPM role) 5 months ago I was handed a project that turns out to be a dumpster fire; an issue the company had for over a year was given to me to solve. Eventually I told my manager that I don’t think I should run project because I requires authority and buy-in from senior leadership and I have not acquired that so far in my tenure. Since day one he highlighted the challenges I face and he always applauded how I handle things or my strategy. My manager complained to me during 1:1s his own frustrations with the company so felt like we were on the same side.

He told me he couldn’t switch me because there wasn’t another project at the time to move too. He even said he asked a colleague about switching with me but that was a no-go. I said okay I guess I’ll keep moving along. (turns out he never asked that colleague)

Less than 2 weeks later, I was running a meeting for the project. My manager says hey can we show his slides instead and he basically took over the meeting and used my templates, outlines for his own presentation and took over the project. When I asked him why did he blind side me when just 2 weeks ago I asked to switch teams or why did he sign off on my slide deck before the meeting, he apologized but didn’t give an explanation. Then 2 days later gives me a coaching plan and then switches me to a new eng team to work with (team already has a PM so its kinda awkward)

I cannot trust my manager anymore. I feel I got moved as a punishment versus a request I put forth. The advice I sought out from him was then part of my coaching plan. Please note I am open to feedback and asked him and my teammates constantly. (feedback was I'm not aggressive enough and some people don't like humor in meetings) ...so its my personality? As the only black female in the org, I do feel...different

Is it just me or was that a shady move by my manager? I left a VERY VERY VERY toxic environment for this role so I’m extra sensitive to bulls%$#. I don’t want to jump ship too quickly but my tolerance for anything suspicious is nil.

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AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 12:41AM UTC
Completely shady. Keep whatever distance you can.
AnonymousNovember 25,2022 at 1:50PM UTC
It sounds like a lot of things could be happening. They may have expected you to "be proactive/take charge" with the initial project, and that feels really risky especially when you are new. You analyzed the way power flows within the organization and perhaps felt that someone with more power would be most effective. Your manager might be reacting or responding to your request for less risk: albeit imperfectly responding. It might be possible you're still adjusting and trying to gain confidence and find belonging. Many workplaces do have DEI issues so that could be a factor too. And it sounds like your boss might have a very specific style of managing. You could try to think of your new positioning as a learning opportunity and use it to build connections, showcase your skills.