Work ethics

Work ethics

The problemMy job title is PA, not "photocopier technician", "commander of the printer paper" or "holder of all the passwords". So why, whenever they encounter the most minor technical problem, do my entire department turn to me to solve it? Like everyone else, I am busy doing my own job, but now I seem to be considered the "go-to" person whenever the printer jams. How can I encourage people to fix their technical messes themselves?

The worker's view:Tamara Lester, PAHow you deal with this situation really depends on the context. The best approach all round is to be friendly and helpful. If, when they come to you with a technical question, your colleague seems to be stressed out and under pressure already, then the last thing they need is the extra frustration of fighting with a jammed copier or empty printer. So if I can help a little by clearing up the mess and getting them back on track then I am happy to do so. If I get the chance to show them how the problem is solved at a less stressful time then even better.

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If they aren't stressed out and it's not urgent, then taking a couple of minutes to show them how to fix the problem will prove the most helpful solution all round. That way they can sort it out for themselves next time and maybe I will have made life easier for both of us.

The etiquette expert's view:Rachel Holland is the founder of Rachel Holland Associates (01722 324953) rha-manners.co.uk

What power you have! You should enjoy the status you have in the office. It is clear that you run the place and it cannot work without you. It is compliment to your proficiency that you are seen as the "fixer".

However, if these techie jobs are a bother, you could organise some local, directed training for your colleagues. Pin notices by the printer and photocopier outlining the steps needed to fix most problems. The final step should be: "Count to 10, try it again, and only if that fails, come and see me." And if your colleagues cannot bring themselves to remember their passwords, institute a fine system: you will remind them, only if they donate a few coins to a charity box on your desk.

If your role has become that of office manager, these tasks are part of your job and you should take pride in doing them so well. However, if these do fall outside your remit, talk to your line manager or to HR, about making sure they are reassigned. But ask yourself: do you really want someone else to take the responsibility away from you?

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