My first day at work

I almost didn't even go this morning.  I was so hesitant about starting this job.  I'm still a little iffy on it, finding out it's not all what it's cracked up to be.  I'll be a paper pusher in a complicated way (if that makes sense) and I'm a little worried that I will get the shaft with some people.  I've already been asked if I make coffee in the morning, before SHE gets there.  I've been told that they want to put up a box by my office for others to throw in their faxes so "I" could fax them within the hour for them.  I hate to sound picky, but I'm not a secretary or receptionist.  This kind of stuff wasn't in the job description.  In this description you actually need an education, and work history to be able to do it.  So there was a few annoying things said today.   I'm a little concerned about being the underdog when I really shouldn't be.   :(  Other than that it went fine, everyone seemed really nice so that was a plus.

hopefully things lighten up for ya!

Holly: I am staying tuned! Office cultures can be entertaining. You'll do fine, just know that if it is not a good fit for you there are other opportunities. Also if the job description doesn't fit what you're doing, ask them wtf is up that in a professional manner. See what they have to say. -Bud

But ya MADE IT girl!!!!  I knew you would! I'd just take it one day at a time and see how it goes. That's like with my job... I am a CHILDCARE PROVIDER.... yet the state wants us to offer to have parents over for lunch with us etc... they want us to assist with the kiddo's brushing their teeth, they make us display pamphlets on the effects of tobacco & alcohol use etc. I'm like CRAP!  What EXACTLY am I here?!     Arg! Hang in there- I'm sure it will mellow out for ya!!

Just my 2 cents so take it for what it's worth....but.... In the past, I have been in situations where it was obvious that my supposed 'peers' in the job environment were trying to see how much they could pawn off on me.  I think in those types of situations you need to assert yourself and let them know that you will not just be trampled over and you aren't going to do all of their stuff for them (if that is not what you are supposed to be doing).  I know it is really hard when you are starting out because you may be a little unclear about SOME of your responsibilities and where the fine lines are -- and you are trying to be friendly with people and get to know them and how they are -- BUT it's kinda like first impressions -- you tend to show people how they can treat you from the beginning.  The thing is, your supervisor also may not know about all of these office politics unless you let him/her know.  That is a kinda difficult subject to approach as well but these are all things that have to be addressed at some point (if they become a problem).  I say give it a few weeks and then assess the situation on the whole.  It's hard to step back and take inventory in the very beginning. Good luck!

If you really have questions, best to ask your supervisor now while you are new. Let HER know you are a little confused and thought you would have more autonomy. Otherwise, remember, we are ALL in service to someone; do these things with a sense of joy that you are contributing to society. All of us are somebody's b*tch!  LOL.

It might be worth it to sit down with your supervisor and go over your job responsibilities.  You might be getting stuff pushed onto you by other co-workers or it could be the case where the job duties are being shuffled around and if you are losest on the totem pole then you might indeed get some "secretary or receptionist" duties.  Once your supervisor has clearly defined your job, you can then deal with the requests as they come in. Just remember to try and make this job as much fun as you can. It doesn't have to be permanent, so after giving it a try and finding you don't like it then move on. Hoping your day goes better today.