Workload Negotiation Template
This Workload Negotiation template will help you to present an evidenced argument to your manager as to why your workload should be adjusted.
Anyone who has worked for a boss in any capacity has been in this situation before. You want to do a good job and take on every task that is assigned to you – but at some point it just becomes too much. So how do you tell your boss that you can't take anymore without coming across as a whiner or a bad employee? It is a delicate situation to be sure. If you speak up, you risk looking bad in the eyes of your boss. If you don't say anything, your performance may suffer while trying to get all of the work done and you may be seen poorly by your boss for a different reason.
Fortunately, there is a way out of this situation where you can look good and the message can get across to your boss. When handled properly, your boss will respect you for speaking up and understand your side of the situation. Use the following three tips to make sure you approach this situation correctly the next time it comes up:
- Catch the Problem Early
- Have Your Facts in Place
- Team Up with a Co-Worker
Before you speak with your boss about being overworked, make sure that you really are. Think about how you spend your time, and if you could get more done by being more efficient or focused during the day. If you are confident that your performance is spot on and you truly have too much to do, think about the three tips above and speak with your boss confidently about this situation.
