On the Job.

Do you feel like you are being dumped on at work? If your answer is yes, it may be time to stop knowing all of the answers.

When everyone in the office comes to you for answers, it does not necessarily mean that you are being used or dumped on. Instead it may be that you have made yourself the office expert. So it is logical that you are the person co-workers and managers seek out when they need help.

Being seen as the office problem-solver can be a good thing, but it can also become a burden, especially if you have difficulty admitting that you do not know something. When you pretend to know what you don't know, you have to work harder to get answers or find a solution. So what can you do? You can start by admitting that you do not know the answer. Say simply, "I am not sure what the answer to that is, but I will try to find out." Then follow through with your promise of looking into it. When you admit that you do not know, someone, a co-worker, may offer helpful information.

Remember, you do not have to have all of the answers. No one will think any less of you, unless you have gone out of your way to make yourself known as the office know-it-all.

Learn how to pass it on:

1. If you find that managers are bypassing their own staff to ask you for help, etc. be respectful but give them an answer that will send them back to their staff person. "Oh yes, I will tell John where he can find that informaton so he can pull it for you."

2. When a manager tries to leave work with you to be copied because Mary's copies are not as sharp as the copies you make. Say you are busy right now, but ask that the copy be left with Mary, explain that you will stop by Mary's desk and show her how to make those sharp copies.

3. Learn to say no.

Visit your local library or order Administrative Assistant's and Secretary's Handbook from Amazon or other bookstore. This book is loaded with useful tips for administrative office staff.