Feeling Overwhelmed with Training Our New Hire
I started in this role alongside our new hire, who will have been here for five weeks tomorrow. I remember being given the same tasks she is currently tackling, but it seems she’s struggling to grasp the concepts. I was considered a quick learner, but honestly, coming from eight years in public Accounting as a bookkeeper (even describing yourself as a CFO for five years), isn’t it surprising that you’re asking basic questions like what “related party” means? A quick Google search could help!
I directed her to review the 2023 custom financial statement we create for one of our suppliers, provided her with a glossary of terms, and explained how I derived the numbers for 2024. Yet, after three days, she had nothing to show.
Today, I asked her to examine our audited financial statements. I highlighted specific sections and instructed her to identify how they relate to particular financial statements or accounts. I suggested looking at the balance sheet, income statement, and trial balance. It took her seven hours to make progress, and the work was still incomplete—something I can usually accomplish in an hour because I’ve learned what to check each year.
After recognizing a disconnect in our training, I designed an exercise for her. Four hours later, she came into my office visibly upset, worried she might get fired if she didn’t complete it. I reassured her that it was a learning exercise meant to prepare her for the report I assigned two weeks ago, which she had given up on. I emphasized that while it’s unrealistic to remember every single number, it’s essential to be resourceful—utilize Google, AI tools in the software, and available help resources. The goal was for her to try to solve problems independently for a bit before coming to me, instead of seeking help every few minutes. Plus, she needs to learn the importance of double-checking her work, which has been a challenge.
Honestly, I’m feeling overwhelmed. My workload has tripled lately. Half my day is consumed by training her because she’s hesitant to explore the software, while the other half is spent on my usual responsibilities, particularly with external deadlines looming and handling the acquisition of a new business. On top of that, she has questioned basics like the treatment of goodwill—when I explained it’s now considered an expense, not depreciated, versus outdated Accounting laws, it was shocking.
This situation is really weighing on me. 😭
One response
It sounds like you’re really feeling the pressure right now, both from your workload and from the challenges of training your new hire. It’s tough when you’re trying to juggle so many responsibilities, and it can be incredibly frustrating when someone isn’t picking up the information as quickly as you need them to.
Transitioning to a new role can be difficult, especially after coming from a different environment. It’s clear you’re putting in a lot of effort to help her succeed, but it’s also understandable that you’d feel overwhelmed with everything on your plate.
Training someone often takes more time and patience than we anticipate, and it can be draining when results aren’t immediate. It might help to have a candid conversation with her about expectations and ways she could approach learning more effectively, perhaps by emphasizing self-directed research and problem-solving skills.
Remember to take care of yourself during this busy time, too! If possible, see if there are ways to lighten your load or get some additional support with the acquisition and training. You’re doing a lot, and it’s okay to feel frustrated. It sounds like you’re dedicated to your job, and that commitment will serve you well in the long run. Hang in there!