Are You an Office Shrink?

Do you find yourself being bombarded with questions? Do people come to you for all sorts of answers, whether it is work related or otherwise?

 

In the beginning of my career at my current job as an Administrative Assistant, I was the outsider, the newbie if you will. I had to shut my mouth and open my ears to learn how things work in this company. Over time, I gained the trust and respect of my fellow colleagues. Now I consider myself the "Office Shrink".

 

The reason behind this is that everyone comes to me for answers. I either know it or I don't. If I don't, it's my responsibility to play detective and snoop around for it. This usually is work related. I do distance myself if people ask me for advice on matters of a personal nature. I politely ask them to speak to a friend, family member, their HR representative or their manager (whomever they feel comfortable confiding in).

 

Going back to "shutting my mouth and opening my ears", there are times when people need me to just listen to them. If they need to vent or complain about something, whether it is a professional or personal matter, I will listen. If it's a professional matter, I will provide them with the best advice I can think of.

 

I don’t believe that this is in my job description, but I try to go above and beyond the call of duty. Besides, this allows people to trust me and confide in me more, which creates better relationships and a working atmosphere.

 

So next time you are asked to help someone out, go ahead and lend your ear to them. It will do great wonders for both of you.

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Until next time,

Take care - of your clutter!
 

Post from: Administrative Assistant