Lady Asks If It's Wrong To Report Colleague Who Is "Using" Her As Personal Assistant

A 28-year-old woman is stuck in the most annoying kind of workplace trap, the one where your “help” turns into someone else’s unpaid workload. Her colleague, Mark, keeps sliding his tasks over to her like it’s no big deal, then acts surprised when it starts to feel disrespectful.

It’s not just a one-off favor. This is the third time Mark has asked her to do his work, and the OP can’t even wrap her head around why he needs her to handle it. The complication is that the office runs on paperwork, so when Mark hands her his forms to complete, it comes off less like teamwork and more like, “I don’t have time, you do it.”

Now OP is wondering if reporting him makes her the problem, or if she’s finally drawing a line.

The OP writes

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The OP couldn’t wrap her mind around why he needed her to do his work

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The situation described in the article highlights the often complex power dynamics present in workplace relationships. The colleague in question appears to be leveraging the protagonist's willingness to assist, which may be rooted in his own insecurities. This behavior not only undermines the protagonist's contributions but also creates a toxic atmosphere. When individuals feel insecure in their roles, they frequently project these feelings onto others, leading to unhealthy workplace dynamics.

This is the third time Mark has asked the OP to do his work

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And the comments roll in...

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The first time Mark asked OP to do his work, it probably felt harmless, until the “personal assistant” vibe showed up again the second time.

OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the AH:

Maybe I should have brought this up with Mark the first time he did it, to find out why he was asking me to assist him with his work.

Reporting to the appropriate people

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Four ways to handle it

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By the third request, OP is no longer thinking it’s a mistake, she’s noticing a pattern where Mark keeps dumping tasks on her.

Workplace power plays can get messy like the pregnant woman deciding whether her SIL should host despite past baby-shower drama.

The situation described in the article highlights the critical need to identify and address potential exploitation in workplace dynamics. When one colleague begins to take advantage of another by demanding personal assistance, it not only undermines professional boundaries but can also lead to significant burnout and decreased job satisfaction for the exploited party. Furthermore, fostering a culture of open communication is vital to prevent misunderstandings and encourage healthier interactions. When employees feel empowered to express their needs and concerns, it can transform the workplace into a more supportive environment where everyone feels valued.

Genuine questions about expectations

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They did a poor communication job

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When OP explains that the paperwork is documented on paper before it gets uploaded, you can practically see how Mark’s shortcuts would slow her down and make it feel personal.

The OP left this somewhere in the comments

Our company relies heavily on paper; everything is documented on paper before being uploaded to the company's site.When he gives me his paperwork to complete, it seems disrespectful, as if he's thinking, "I don't have time for this; let me just give it to her to fill in the empty spaces because I have better things to do."That's how it feels to me. He needs to document everything he does, so why can't he just fill in the empty spaces himself? That's what confuses me.

Going to a supervisor

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His work is his to do

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Even the comment section goes there, with people debating whether OP should have addressed Mark sooner or whether reporting him is the only way to stop the cycle.

The situation described highlights the potential for resentment and burnout when one colleague feels "used" by another. By engaging in open conversations about roles and responsibilities, individuals can clarify expectations and create an environment where exploitation is less likely to occur. This proactive approach not only supports personal well-being but also contributes to a healthier, more cooperative workplace culture.

Division of duties

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Navigating workplace dynamics is critical for fostering a healthy environment.

Work assignments often originate from one's management structure in a conventional work setting. Since it sounds like the OP's workplace has different supervisors, this should be discussed to clarify roles and duties.

Redditors advised the OP to proceed with her intended action, as she was declared not the AH. Do share this story with your loved ones to get their opinions as well.

Additionally, seeking support from HR or management can provide an avenue for addressing these issues professionally.

Employees should feel empowered to report behaviors that compromise their well-being, ensuring a healthier work environment.

OP might not be wrong for reporting Mark, because nobody should be doing his paperwork for free.

Wait, you canceled a cooking date after your partner made a weight comment? See the Reddit fallout in this AITA about the weight comment that derailed the meal.