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Personal assistant; directors and boss keep interrupting my work to ask me to make them tea/coffee
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I'm a personal assistant and have been at this company for over a year now. It really bugs me when directors interrupt me while I’m working and ask me to get them tea or coffee.
I really don’t mind doing the drink round if I offer but find it very belittling when they ask me. It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings, but not all the time.
Today I was eating my lunch and still had my mouth full when my boss came in and said "I know you’re on lunch, but can I have a tea?". I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch! I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
professionalism management job-description
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
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up vote
14
down vote
favorite
I'm a personal assistant and have been at this company for over a year now. It really bugs me when directors interrupt me while I’m working and ask me to get them tea or coffee.
I really don’t mind doing the drink round if I offer but find it very belittling when they ask me. It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings, but not all the time.
Today I was eating my lunch and still had my mouth full when my boss came in and said "I know you’re on lunch, but can I have a tea?". I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch! I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
professionalism management job-description
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
40
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
3
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
3
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago
 |Â
show 1 more comment
up vote
14
down vote
favorite
up vote
14
down vote
favorite
I'm a personal assistant and have been at this company for over a year now. It really bugs me when directors interrupt me while I’m working and ask me to get them tea or coffee.
I really don’t mind doing the drink round if I offer but find it very belittling when they ask me. It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings, but not all the time.
Today I was eating my lunch and still had my mouth full when my boss came in and said "I know you’re on lunch, but can I have a tea?". I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch! I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
professionalism management job-description
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
I'm a personal assistant and have been at this company for over a year now. It really bugs me when directors interrupt me while I’m working and ask me to get them tea or coffee.
I really don’t mind doing the drink round if I offer but find it very belittling when they ask me. It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings, but not all the time.
Today I was eating my lunch and still had my mouth full when my boss came in and said "I know you’re on lunch, but can I have a tea?". I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch! I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
professionalism management job-description
professionalism management job-description
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
edited 3 mins ago
smci
2,043820
2,043820
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
asked 9 hours ago
Anonymous
8213
8213
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
Anonymous is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
40
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
3
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
3
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago
 |Â
show 1 more comment
40
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
3
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
3
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago
40
40
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
3
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
3
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
3
3
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
3
3
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago
 |Â
show 1 more comment
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
up vote
43
down vote
It's not that unusual for Personal Assistant roles to include such tasks as making drinks.
Asking while you're on your lunch break is not on in my opinion though - and I would say the same of any request to do a work task while you're obviously on a break.
Fortunately there is a work around for that situation at least - which is to eat lunch elsewhere. Should you have to in an ideal world? No. But this is the world we have and for some reason millions of people out there seem to translate "eating at desk" to mean "yes I'm accepting work requests at the moment".
I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch!
Honestly while I understand and completely sympathize with your frustration I do think this is an over-reaction. If a small, albeit thoughtless action can get you worked up to that extent then you are going to be in for an extremely stressful life in the workplace!
I feel like they don’t see what I’m actually capable of and just see me as the run around. Baring in mind, they have to walk past the kitchen to come into my office to ask me...
I'm not trying to be harsh here.. but "run around" is pretty much the point of a Personal Assistant. It's not that they are incapable of doing the tasks they delegate to you, it's so that they can get on with doing the bits of their job that can't be delegated to an assistant.
Imagine you're the CEO of Acme Mega Corp and one of your execs tells you they haven't finished the Widget report that day because they ran out of time and you've seen them making tea and coffee. You are probably going to be wondering why you go to the expense of employing them a PA.
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
27
down vote
Eat your lunch elsewhere - out of sight. In the kitchen, if you have one. Or e.g. in a nearby park if you don't.
And yes, it's usually normal for people for whom you're a PA to ask you for tea/ coffee. If you're not ok with that you should search for another job.
My answer would we totally different if you weren't a PA just a random subordinate to these people of course. But PAs are normally responsible for "the logistics".
My answer holds even if it officially isn't part of your obligations, it's so minor that you probably don't want it to be the hill to die on.
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
7
down vote
I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see
me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
If you haven't already done so, you need to ask your boss for a quick meeting. In the meeting, discuss your role, what is part of it and what is not.
You can express your desire not to get tea and coffee if that is your preference.
In your manager's mind your role might actually be the one who does all the running around. If that's the case and it's not what you want, then you'll know it's time to start looking elsewhere.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
If your job description explicitly says "get drinks for meetings", but does not mention specific individuals or other times, then you can simply point to that fact. If your job description is implied that you get people the drinks, well, that's your job and though the boss is being inconsiderate of your time, he's still the boss and did make a request that is part of your job.
On a personal note, you should ask yourself if personal assistant the right job for you. Fetching trivial things is sort of a hallmark task for personal assistants. The longer you are in this job, will you eventually find it belittling to fetch other things? Did you take the job to hopefully be promoted to something else? If yes, evaluate if that is actually something you think may happen. Have a frank discussion with your boss about it and see what is actually possible. In the meantime, I'd seriously evaluate if personal assistant is a job you even want to do, and if not, find out what it takes to get you to do it anyway, being the "run around" included.
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
I am providing this answer on the basis that you are okay with preparing drinks for meetings but NOT any other time.
The only proper solution is to talk to your direct boss and explain that your work and lunch is getting disrupted by people asking you to make coffee/tea for them personally.
This can go one of two ways:
- In theory your boss should agree that this is a waste of your time.
At this point you should ask your boss to speak with higher-ups
telling them that drink-making is not an efficient use of your time - Your boss is okay with the situation and you will continue to be
expected to make drinks when requested. However, you should
decline/defer/delay if they ask you during your lunch.
If you do not wish to get your boss involved then you can choose to:
- flat-out decline the requests. "I'm sorry but I do not do that"
- "forget" that they asked
- point them to the kitchen where they can make tea/coffee
- offer to show them how to use the magical tea/coffee machine
As with everything else in life you need to pick your battles wisely or else you could find yourself in a situation which leaves you begging to have the title of drink-making master.
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
add a comment |Â
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5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
43
down vote
It's not that unusual for Personal Assistant roles to include such tasks as making drinks.
Asking while you're on your lunch break is not on in my opinion though - and I would say the same of any request to do a work task while you're obviously on a break.
Fortunately there is a work around for that situation at least - which is to eat lunch elsewhere. Should you have to in an ideal world? No. But this is the world we have and for some reason millions of people out there seem to translate "eating at desk" to mean "yes I'm accepting work requests at the moment".
I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch!
Honestly while I understand and completely sympathize with your frustration I do think this is an over-reaction. If a small, albeit thoughtless action can get you worked up to that extent then you are going to be in for an extremely stressful life in the workplace!
I feel like they don’t see what I’m actually capable of and just see me as the run around. Baring in mind, they have to walk past the kitchen to come into my office to ask me...
I'm not trying to be harsh here.. but "run around" is pretty much the point of a Personal Assistant. It's not that they are incapable of doing the tasks they delegate to you, it's so that they can get on with doing the bits of their job that can't be delegated to an assistant.
Imagine you're the CEO of Acme Mega Corp and one of your execs tells you they haven't finished the Widget report that day because they ran out of time and you've seen them making tea and coffee. You are probably going to be wondering why you go to the expense of employing them a PA.
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
43
down vote
It's not that unusual for Personal Assistant roles to include such tasks as making drinks.
Asking while you're on your lunch break is not on in my opinion though - and I would say the same of any request to do a work task while you're obviously on a break.
Fortunately there is a work around for that situation at least - which is to eat lunch elsewhere. Should you have to in an ideal world? No. But this is the world we have and for some reason millions of people out there seem to translate "eating at desk" to mean "yes I'm accepting work requests at the moment".
I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch!
Honestly while I understand and completely sympathize with your frustration I do think this is an over-reaction. If a small, albeit thoughtless action can get you worked up to that extent then you are going to be in for an extremely stressful life in the workplace!
I feel like they don’t see what I’m actually capable of and just see me as the run around. Baring in mind, they have to walk past the kitchen to come into my office to ask me...
I'm not trying to be harsh here.. but "run around" is pretty much the point of a Personal Assistant. It's not that they are incapable of doing the tasks they delegate to you, it's so that they can get on with doing the bits of their job that can't be delegated to an assistant.
Imagine you're the CEO of Acme Mega Corp and one of your execs tells you they haven't finished the Widget report that day because they ran out of time and you've seen them making tea and coffee. You are probably going to be wondering why you go to the expense of employing them a PA.
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
43
down vote
up vote
43
down vote
It's not that unusual for Personal Assistant roles to include such tasks as making drinks.
Asking while you're on your lunch break is not on in my opinion though - and I would say the same of any request to do a work task while you're obviously on a break.
Fortunately there is a work around for that situation at least - which is to eat lunch elsewhere. Should you have to in an ideal world? No. But this is the world we have and for some reason millions of people out there seem to translate "eating at desk" to mean "yes I'm accepting work requests at the moment".
I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch!
Honestly while I understand and completely sympathize with your frustration I do think this is an over-reaction. If a small, albeit thoughtless action can get you worked up to that extent then you are going to be in for an extremely stressful life in the workplace!
I feel like they don’t see what I’m actually capable of and just see me as the run around. Baring in mind, they have to walk past the kitchen to come into my office to ask me...
I'm not trying to be harsh here.. but "run around" is pretty much the point of a Personal Assistant. It's not that they are incapable of doing the tasks they delegate to you, it's so that they can get on with doing the bits of their job that can't be delegated to an assistant.
Imagine you're the CEO of Acme Mega Corp and one of your execs tells you they haven't finished the Widget report that day because they ran out of time and you've seen them making tea and coffee. You are probably going to be wondering why you go to the expense of employing them a PA.
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
It's not that unusual for Personal Assistant roles to include such tasks as making drinks.
Asking while you're on your lunch break is not on in my opinion though - and I would say the same of any request to do a work task while you're obviously on a break.
Fortunately there is a work around for that situation at least - which is to eat lunch elsewhere. Should you have to in an ideal world? No. But this is the world we have and for some reason millions of people out there seem to translate "eating at desk" to mean "yes I'm accepting work requests at the moment".
I made it but was too frustrated to even finish my lunch!
Honestly while I understand and completely sympathize with your frustration I do think this is an over-reaction. If a small, albeit thoughtless action can get you worked up to that extent then you are going to be in for an extremely stressful life in the workplace!
I feel like they don’t see what I’m actually capable of and just see me as the run around. Baring in mind, they have to walk past the kitchen to come into my office to ask me...
I'm not trying to be harsh here.. but "run around" is pretty much the point of a Personal Assistant. It's not that they are incapable of doing the tasks they delegate to you, it's so that they can get on with doing the bits of their job that can't be delegated to an assistant.
Imagine you're the CEO of Acme Mega Corp and one of your execs tells you they haven't finished the Widget report that day because they ran out of time and you've seen them making tea and coffee. You are probably going to be wondering why you go to the expense of employing them a PA.
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
answered 9 hours ago
motosubatsu
35.4k1592145
35.4k1592145
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
20
20
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
As another option for the lunch situation, if it happened again I would just say "Sure, I'll grab it when I'm finished with my lunch."
– David K
7 hours ago
12
12
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
Yeah. This looks like a PA not getting the point of a PA at all and being upset to be treated like a PA. Ah. Yeah.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
2
2
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
Re: Being an over-reaction... It depends on how long this has been happening. A minor annoyance on week 1 can easily become a major issue after 6 months of repeats, each one adding to the frustration. Of course, that's why it's good to address these things early [I tend to give people a few false starts before I'll comment, in case it's an outlier]
– Basic
3 hours ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
@Basic Its an overreaction because the request is exactly the kind of thing a PA is supposed to do.
– Andy
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
27
down vote
Eat your lunch elsewhere - out of sight. In the kitchen, if you have one. Or e.g. in a nearby park if you don't.
And yes, it's usually normal for people for whom you're a PA to ask you for tea/ coffee. If you're not ok with that you should search for another job.
My answer would we totally different if you weren't a PA just a random subordinate to these people of course. But PAs are normally responsible for "the logistics".
My answer holds even if it officially isn't part of your obligations, it's so minor that you probably don't want it to be the hill to die on.
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
27
down vote
Eat your lunch elsewhere - out of sight. In the kitchen, if you have one. Or e.g. in a nearby park if you don't.
And yes, it's usually normal for people for whom you're a PA to ask you for tea/ coffee. If you're not ok with that you should search for another job.
My answer would we totally different if you weren't a PA just a random subordinate to these people of course. But PAs are normally responsible for "the logistics".
My answer holds even if it officially isn't part of your obligations, it's so minor that you probably don't want it to be the hill to die on.
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
27
down vote
up vote
27
down vote
Eat your lunch elsewhere - out of sight. In the kitchen, if you have one. Or e.g. in a nearby park if you don't.
And yes, it's usually normal for people for whom you're a PA to ask you for tea/ coffee. If you're not ok with that you should search for another job.
My answer would we totally different if you weren't a PA just a random subordinate to these people of course. But PAs are normally responsible for "the logistics".
My answer holds even if it officially isn't part of your obligations, it's so minor that you probably don't want it to be the hill to die on.
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
Eat your lunch elsewhere - out of sight. In the kitchen, if you have one. Or e.g. in a nearby park if you don't.
And yes, it's usually normal for people for whom you're a PA to ask you for tea/ coffee. If you're not ok with that you should search for another job.
My answer would we totally different if you weren't a PA just a random subordinate to these people of course. But PAs are normally responsible for "the logistics".
My answer holds even if it officially isn't part of your obligations, it's so minor that you probably don't want it to be the hill to die on.
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
edited 9 hours ago
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
answered 9 hours ago
385703
5,0443935
5,0443935
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
 |Â
show 4 more comments
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
4
4
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
I don't agree that the OP should have to hide when eating their lunch in order to avoid being forced to make a cup of tea at a moment's notice when they're literally mid-mouthful.
– Lightness Races in Orbit
8 hours ago
9
9
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
@LightnessRacesinOrbit. If I am at my desk, people do approach me with questions. Even if I am eating. I would never see it as them disrespecting me. It's not other people's business when you take your lunch break. Being at the desk means being approachable. You can try explaining and educating that people shouldn't approach you when you're at your desk, but I don't think it is be something you will be able to change.
– 385703
7 hours ago
2
2
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
I agree with @LightnessRacesinOrbit 's comment. I think eating lunch somewhere out of sight might be a good practical way to help address the issue. However, I am of the opinion that if you are obviously on a lunch break, that is supposed to be your time and interrupting you for a tea/coffee is unreasonable. Perhaps consider bringing it up with your Boss in private?
– Time4Tea
7 hours ago
7
7
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
You can find "rude" whatever you like, but such behavior is normal and can't be changed easily.
– 385703
7 hours ago
3
3
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
@DoktorJ The flaw with that argument is if they don't have the time to make the drink themselves, how on earth would they have time to track when you finish your lunch break AND go to you at that time. I understand waiting to fill the request till you finish lunch, but it's easier to pass requests when you cross paths than "whenever it's convenient for everyone".
– Tezra
5 hours ago
 |Â
show 4 more comments
up vote
7
down vote
I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see
me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
If you haven't already done so, you need to ask your boss for a quick meeting. In the meeting, discuss your role, what is part of it and what is not.
You can express your desire not to get tea and coffee if that is your preference.
In your manager's mind your role might actually be the one who does all the running around. If that's the case and it's not what you want, then you'll know it's time to start looking elsewhere.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see
me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
If you haven't already done so, you need to ask your boss for a quick meeting. In the meeting, discuss your role, what is part of it and what is not.
You can express your desire not to get tea and coffee if that is your preference.
In your manager's mind your role might actually be the one who does all the running around. If that's the case and it's not what you want, then you'll know it's time to start looking elsewhere.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
up vote
7
down vote
I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see
me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
If you haven't already done so, you need to ask your boss for a quick meeting. In the meeting, discuss your role, what is part of it and what is not.
You can express your desire not to get tea and coffee if that is your preference.
In your manager's mind your role might actually be the one who does all the running around. If that's the case and it's not what you want, then you'll know it's time to start looking elsewhere.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
I feel like they don't see what I'm actually capable of and just see
me as the run around.
Am I wrong for being frustrated? How can I get them to stop this?
If you haven't already done so, you need to ask your boss for a quick meeting. In the meeting, discuss your role, what is part of it and what is not.
You can express your desire not to get tea and coffee if that is your preference.
In your manager's mind your role might actually be the one who does all the running around. If that's the case and it's not what you want, then you'll know it's time to start looking elsewhere.
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
answered 6 hours ago
Joe Strazzere
232k113682964
232k113682964
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
If your job description explicitly says "get drinks for meetings", but does not mention specific individuals or other times, then you can simply point to that fact. If your job description is implied that you get people the drinks, well, that's your job and though the boss is being inconsiderate of your time, he's still the boss and did make a request that is part of your job.
On a personal note, you should ask yourself if personal assistant the right job for you. Fetching trivial things is sort of a hallmark task for personal assistants. The longer you are in this job, will you eventually find it belittling to fetch other things? Did you take the job to hopefully be promoted to something else? If yes, evaluate if that is actually something you think may happen. Have a frank discussion with your boss about it and see what is actually possible. In the meantime, I'd seriously evaluate if personal assistant is a job you even want to do, and if not, find out what it takes to get you to do it anyway, being the "run around" included.
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
If your job description explicitly says "get drinks for meetings", but does not mention specific individuals or other times, then you can simply point to that fact. If your job description is implied that you get people the drinks, well, that's your job and though the boss is being inconsiderate of your time, he's still the boss and did make a request that is part of your job.
On a personal note, you should ask yourself if personal assistant the right job for you. Fetching trivial things is sort of a hallmark task for personal assistants. The longer you are in this job, will you eventually find it belittling to fetch other things? Did you take the job to hopefully be promoted to something else? If yes, evaluate if that is actually something you think may happen. Have a frank discussion with your boss about it and see what is actually possible. In the meantime, I'd seriously evaluate if personal assistant is a job you even want to do, and if not, find out what it takes to get you to do it anyway, being the "run around" included.
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
up vote
2
down vote
If your job description explicitly says "get drinks for meetings", but does not mention specific individuals or other times, then you can simply point to that fact. If your job description is implied that you get people the drinks, well, that's your job and though the boss is being inconsiderate of your time, he's still the boss and did make a request that is part of your job.
On a personal note, you should ask yourself if personal assistant the right job for you. Fetching trivial things is sort of a hallmark task for personal assistants. The longer you are in this job, will you eventually find it belittling to fetch other things? Did you take the job to hopefully be promoted to something else? If yes, evaluate if that is actually something you think may happen. Have a frank discussion with your boss about it and see what is actually possible. In the meantime, I'd seriously evaluate if personal assistant is a job you even want to do, and if not, find out what it takes to get you to do it anyway, being the "run around" included.
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
If your job description explicitly says "get drinks for meetings", but does not mention specific individuals or other times, then you can simply point to that fact. If your job description is implied that you get people the drinks, well, that's your job and though the boss is being inconsiderate of your time, he's still the boss and did make a request that is part of your job.
On a personal note, you should ask yourself if personal assistant the right job for you. Fetching trivial things is sort of a hallmark task for personal assistants. The longer you are in this job, will you eventually find it belittling to fetch other things? Did you take the job to hopefully be promoted to something else? If yes, evaluate if that is actually something you think may happen. Have a frank discussion with your boss about it and see what is actually possible. In the meantime, I'd seriously evaluate if personal assistant is a job you even want to do, and if not, find out what it takes to get you to do it anyway, being the "run around" included.
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
answered 3 hours ago
fredsbend
311212
311212
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
I am providing this answer on the basis that you are okay with preparing drinks for meetings but NOT any other time.
The only proper solution is to talk to your direct boss and explain that your work and lunch is getting disrupted by people asking you to make coffee/tea for them personally.
This can go one of two ways:
- In theory your boss should agree that this is a waste of your time.
At this point you should ask your boss to speak with higher-ups
telling them that drink-making is not an efficient use of your time - Your boss is okay with the situation and you will continue to be
expected to make drinks when requested. However, you should
decline/defer/delay if they ask you during your lunch.
If you do not wish to get your boss involved then you can choose to:
- flat-out decline the requests. "I'm sorry but I do not do that"
- "forget" that they asked
- point them to the kitchen where they can make tea/coffee
- offer to show them how to use the magical tea/coffee machine
As with everything else in life you need to pick your battles wisely or else you could find yourself in a situation which leaves you begging to have the title of drink-making master.
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
I am providing this answer on the basis that you are okay with preparing drinks for meetings but NOT any other time.
The only proper solution is to talk to your direct boss and explain that your work and lunch is getting disrupted by people asking you to make coffee/tea for them personally.
This can go one of two ways:
- In theory your boss should agree that this is a waste of your time.
At this point you should ask your boss to speak with higher-ups
telling them that drink-making is not an efficient use of your time - Your boss is okay with the situation and you will continue to be
expected to make drinks when requested. However, you should
decline/defer/delay if they ask you during your lunch.
If you do not wish to get your boss involved then you can choose to:
- flat-out decline the requests. "I'm sorry but I do not do that"
- "forget" that they asked
- point them to the kitchen where they can make tea/coffee
- offer to show them how to use the magical tea/coffee machine
As with everything else in life you need to pick your battles wisely or else you could find yourself in a situation which leaves you begging to have the title of drink-making master.
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
I am providing this answer on the basis that you are okay with preparing drinks for meetings but NOT any other time.
The only proper solution is to talk to your direct boss and explain that your work and lunch is getting disrupted by people asking you to make coffee/tea for them personally.
This can go one of two ways:
- In theory your boss should agree that this is a waste of your time.
At this point you should ask your boss to speak with higher-ups
telling them that drink-making is not an efficient use of your time - Your boss is okay with the situation and you will continue to be
expected to make drinks when requested. However, you should
decline/defer/delay if they ask you during your lunch.
If you do not wish to get your boss involved then you can choose to:
- flat-out decline the requests. "I'm sorry but I do not do that"
- "forget" that they asked
- point them to the kitchen where they can make tea/coffee
- offer to show them how to use the magical tea/coffee machine
As with everything else in life you need to pick your battles wisely or else you could find yourself in a situation which leaves you begging to have the title of drink-making master.
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
I am providing this answer on the basis that you are okay with preparing drinks for meetings but NOT any other time.
The only proper solution is to talk to your direct boss and explain that your work and lunch is getting disrupted by people asking you to make coffee/tea for them personally.
This can go one of two ways:
- In theory your boss should agree that this is a waste of your time.
At this point you should ask your boss to speak with higher-ups
telling them that drink-making is not an efficient use of your time - Your boss is okay with the situation and you will continue to be
expected to make drinks when requested. However, you should
decline/defer/delay if they ask you during your lunch.
If you do not wish to get your boss involved then you can choose to:
- flat-out decline the requests. "I'm sorry but I do not do that"
- "forget" that they asked
- point them to the kitchen where they can make tea/coffee
- offer to show them how to use the magical tea/coffee machine
As with everything else in life you need to pick your battles wisely or else you could find yourself in a situation which leaves you begging to have the title of drink-making master.
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
edited 2 hours ago
V2Blast
16018
16018
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
answered 6 hours ago
MonkeyZeus
3,44811024
3,44811024
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
add a comment |Â
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
5
5
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
Yeah, but let me tell you that - if my PA would refuse to bring me coffee - it is time to get a PA that understands the role of a PA.
– TomTom
5 hours ago
3
3
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
@TomTom Unfortunately your comment is pure conjecture since it is unknown whether this PA is your PA. Would you approach the company president's PA with a coffee request out of the blue? I doubt it. Besides, 95% of my answer advocates the fact that OP needs to get their job roles clarified.
– MonkeyZeus
4 hours ago
add a comment |Â
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40
You say you are a personal assistant - is it part of your job to get the higher-ups coffee and tea?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Related question, not a duplicate: Did I overreact to my boss asking me to get him coffee?
– David K
9 hours ago
3
Only during meetings (if we have people coming in to meet with the directors)
– Anonymous
9 hours ago
3
You might want to mention a locale. The role of a Personal Assistant varies widely, part of that depending on locale.
– Joe Strazzere
6 hours ago
3
"It's my responsibility to get drinks for the group during meetings" sounds very specific. Was that perhaps mentioned in the interview/early on? Is it possible your boss meant to say "During meetings, etc..." but said or you heard "During meetings"?
– Basic
3 hours ago