h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I woke in a real grumpy mood this morning.

W*rk is appalling at the moment. There is much that needs to be done - much of which really interests me and is full of challenge. However, each time I try to get moving on some of the really important projects, I am stymied by my Un-Manager, who insists that I do the pointless, directionless stuff that six months ago she decided I should do. This is despite countless debates and conversations with her about the futility of those initial ideas. She sits smiling sympathetically at me when I lay out my arguments for and against various work streams... and completely ignores what I have to say She then provides me no support, no resources, no information and no guidance.

Her favourite line is >>Don't worry Fb: it'll all become clear to you in time and you'll be able to be an expert in that field<< If you say something often enough it comes true?

Fortunately I am only one of about 16 people similarly challenged. Some of the others have brains the size of planets - and they make a corresponding lack of headway against the managers. I'm having a discussion this morning with two of the bigbrains and I'm hoping a) not to look a complete dunce compared to them and b) that they will be able to help me find a door in the wall of resistance and lack of engagement.



Now I shall go and laugh at myself in the mirror. It's a failsafe way to cheer myself up

Fb

Oh, dear, I am sorry you are finding obstacles put in your way Frenchbean. I do hope you can rattle a few cages and make a sizeable dent in the wall - Go on girl, you can do it Just so long as you are not trying to before you can walk

It seems to be the same everywhere. Initiative seems to be stifled at every opportunity. Independent *thinking* people are not welcome (probably because you show them up!)



Websailor

Trust me Websailor, I've barely reached a shuffling creep

I have laughed at myself in the mirror and am now at work eating a date scone

That does sound frustrating. Why oh why are so many people in management positions when they don't have a clue how to manage anything?

Not only do we have inept managers, but there are only four of them... for 60 staff Although we are in the midst of a process to appoint eight (yes, eight - recession? what recession?) new managers, I don't hold out great hope for any sensible changes in the near future.

If I stay here another 18 months I don't have to repay any of my relocation expenses from Australia. Bets on how long I'll last?

Oh, stick with it Fb, I am sure things will get better. Why pay back money if there is no need? Would a Manager's job suit you better?

Websailor

I seriously considered applying for one of the management posts, but the pay was only slightly greater than my current salary and I would actually have lost time off (no opportunity to work flexitime). There was quite a lot of pressure put on me from colleagues to apply, but at the end of the day I want a life.

And it's the fact that I love my life here that will haul me out of the doldrums in a day or two. I will get back to working my 7.5 hours, then running away home to enjoy what's important

I can't afford to leave before the two years is up Too many debts still to be paid off from Australia. Hey ho...

when you get home Management is no fun I know. it's either all the blame and none of the perks, or all the perks and none of the blame, not much fun either way for a conscientious person


Websailor

Actually I'm off for a and a chunk of delicious now

for some

Websailor