Navigating Relationships with Partners Who Treat You Like a Personal Assistant
Is it just me, or do emails with phrases like “Schedule this on my calendar” or “Send me X” rub anyone else the wrong way? As someone who is already incredibly busy, receiving those kinds of messages from partners who have personal assistants or dedicated systems for such requests can be quite frustrating.
It also bothers me when these emails lack basic courtesies, like “Do you have time to…” or “Could you please…” or even a simple “Thank you.”
I understand that workplace niceties might be overlooked sometimes, especially on hectic days, but I personally strive to communicate with kindness and respect, especially when asking junior associates or staff for help.
So, why do some partners seem to take pride in being dismissive or rude?
One Response
It sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating situation! It’s definitely not just you – many people feel disrespected when they receive demands instead of polite requests. It’s surprising how often partners can forget the importance of basic courtesy, especially when they have more power and resources at their disposal.
One approach to handling this could be to respond in a way that models the behavior you’d prefer to see. When you reply to those emails, you could gently remind them of what would typically be considered polite – for example, saying, “Sure, I can help with that! Would you mind providing a bit more context so I can prioritize it effectively?”
If this becomes a pattern, you might also consider having a candid conversation with the partner about communication preferences when you have a chance. They may not even realize their approach is coming off as dismissive or demanding.
Ultimately, maintaining your own standards of politeness will not only set a good example but also promote a positive workplace culture, even if not everyone is aligned with that approach. It’s unfortunate that some leaders feel the need to exert control through rudeness – perhaps they think it conveys authority? But remember, your way of handling interactions can also influence the environment over time. Stay committed to kindness; it makes a difference!