Whenever we can, we like to speak to Binfire project management software customers.   We use feedback to come up with new features (such as the new time tracking and invoicing that was released in June).  But our conversations with clients, colleagues, and friends is a two-way street and over the course of several months, we have gathered a number of questions that relate to collaboration and project management.

We’ve decided to formalize things so we will be publishing a series of questions periodically.   If you wish to ask a question or to answer a question, please feel free to leave a comment below.

 

Dear Collaboration Corner

I am a recent college graduate that just started my first job as a graphics designer for a digital marketing agency.

I love this job a lot and I never thought that I would get such a good position with such little experience (my degree is in art history).    I don’t want to sound like someone ungrateful especially since many of my friends are still looking for work, but I have a hard time adjusting to a very difficult work condition.

As I am still in training, I have been assigned to help four senior designers who give me projects whenever they need help.   My problem is that one of the designers (Tom) only ever gives me assignments to do in the late afternoon or before the weekend.   Even if he sees that I am not busy, he waits until the last minute to give me work and then tells me it’s urgent.    When I did get the courage to speak with him, he actually apologized but then did the same thing the same week.   It’s hard to believe that he’s not acting deliberately.

I end up working long hours even though I often have free time during the day and have worked three of the last four weekends.   I have only been here a few months and I don’t want to rock the boat especially since I think I am lucky to have a job that I am underqualified for.

I don’t have one direct supervisor that I can complain to and Tom is well liked by everyone.    Is there a way that I can be re-assigned without making a big fuss?

Sincerely,

Working Too Hard

 

Dear Working Too Hard,

I am sure Tom is not doing it deliberately, he does not wake up every morning and tell “himself lets screw the new guy”. He has more important things to do and the success of the company is good for him too.

You should realize that Tom is working hard too and probably gets to a point to pass assignment to others late in afternoon. Working hard while you are young is not such a bad thing. In fact, it is the best training you can have for your career.

Since Tom was understanding when you talked to him the first time, talk to him again and I am sure he will try to help you, but most importantly don’t be a baby, success requires hard work!

Good Luck,

Collaboration corner