Getting tasks thrown at you like corporate hot potatoes? ??
Hanna Serra e Silva
Advisor | Director | Multi-industry | ex-COP28 & Expo 2020 | Executive MBA at London Business School
So, there is someone on the team delegating tasks like they're trying to win a game of "Pass the Buck"? You're not alone! It's a classic office trope, but way less amusing when it's happening to you. Here's your survival guide:
?? Become a Task Prioritization Pro: Think of your tasks as a buffet line. Start with the main course (critical projects like "finalizing the project timeline"), nibble on the sides ("reviewing meeting notes"), and leave the dessert (like "color-coding the team's shared folder") for later — or let someone else take it. Not all tasks are Michelin-star worthy!
?? "Clarification" is Your Superhero Power: When a new task lands in your lap, channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and ask questions like:
- "What’s the real priority here—life or death or just 'nice to have'?"
- "Is this due tomorrow or next fiscal year?"
- "Should I pause my current work on the quarterly strategy presentation to tackle this?"
This is helpful input, while subtly reminding the slinger you’re not their personal assistant.
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?? Manage Up (With Style!): Subtly keep your manager informed of your workload. Try: "Hey, I’m juggling X, Y, and Z right now. Should I pause one of these to prioritize A?” Translation: "Help me before everything starts falling through the cracks!"
?? Document Like You’re Writing a Sitcom Script: Keep track of every odd task you’re handed. For example: "Day 12: Asked to create a 50-slide deck on why coffee breaks improve productivity. Pretty sure my job title is 'Project Manager,' not 'Corporate Philosopher.'" This not only keeps you organized but also provides material for future laughs (or HR conversations).
?? Offer Help (??): Instead of taking over entirely, offer guidance. For instance: "I can share the Excel I use for project tracking — super easy to follow!" Translation: "You can do this yourself, pal."
What's that strange, head-scratching task you've been handed? Share your workplace tales in the comments! Misery loves company (and hilarious stories)!
#worklife #delegation #humor