Seeking Advice/Assistance
I’m currently a tax associate at a leading tax firm in the Pacific Northwest and have been in the position for nearly a year. As the busy season ramps up, I’m feeling quite overwhelmed by the demands and long hours. I understand this is part of the job, but I’m reaching out because I’ve noticed that my managers keep assigning me additional hours and tasks, even though other staff members have no scheduled hours and aren’t working on anything.
I often inform my managers about my availability, stating that I’m not able to take on more work, yet they still add me to the schedule instead of reallocating those hours to team members who are free. Has anyone else faced a similar situation? How did you handle it? I’d appreciate any advice or insights you might have. Thank you!
One response
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, and it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially during busy season. Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Document Your Workload: Keep track of the hours you are logged and the tasks you are completing. This will help you clearly communicate your situation to management.
Communicate Openly: If you haven’t already, consider having a frank conversation with your manager or supervisor. Express your concerns about your workload and the observation that there are other staff members with fewer hours. Be honest about your current capacity and how the added hours are affecting your performance.
Propose Solutions: When discussing your workload, suggest potential solutions, such as redistributing tasks among the staff who are available. It’s important to present this as a way to enhance team efficiency rather than just a complaint.
Seek Support: If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, look for support from peers or mentors within the company. They may have faced similar situations and could offer insights or strategies that worked for them.
Manage Stress: During busy seasons, it’s crucial to take care of your mental health. Find ways to manage your stress, whether through breaks, exercise, or talking to someone about how you’re feeling.
HR or Higher Management: If the situation doesn’t improve after discussing your concerns with your immediate manager, consider reaching out to HR or a higher-level manager to discuss your workload and the staffing issue.
Explore Long-term Options: If you find that the workload is consistently unmanageable and the support you need isn’t available, you might want to evaluate whether this role or company is the right fit for you long-term.
You’re not alone in feeling this way in busy seasons—many in the industry go through similar challenges. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and communicate your needs clearly. Good luck!