I had an interesting day yesterday. I now have a consultant tied to my hip as we are implementing the new system at work. And I'm supposed to be the Project Manager for my agency on this project, only until yesterday, I haven't been given any direction on how they want me to proceed. I find myself caught between the lab and the IT world and needing to represent both to each other.... and although my lab friends know me and understand my "ways" when I get task driven, the IT folks don't... yet. But after yesterday, I think they are getting a better picture. We were on a phone conference call with the vendor because the vendor hasn't provided the personnel they agreed to provide contractually. I asked when we could expect the vendor's project manager to be assigned to the project and was given a vague, oh--in a few weeks kind of answer. And without thinking, not with malice or anger, I responded... "No. That's not good enough. Y'all need to provide us with a name by the end of the week."
The next thing I know I'm getting a two thumbs up gesture from one woman and she's mouthing, "You go, girl!" and my direct supervisor has jumped out of his chair, plastered himself against the wall, arms outstretched, and acting like he's scared of me. My response? I started giggling.
So now, I'm left with the question for myself... Is my directness out of line at times? Because my direct supervisor saw me as being a little "snappy" with them... and the other person saw me as being appropriately tough. My dilemma? I like my supervisors way of dealing with people better than the other woman.
Well, it's time for me to get ready for work so I can do this again.
2 comments:
Hey, friend. One of the things that I have always appreciated about you is your unique ability to be direct or tactful as the situation requires. (Example: "Do you really want to ask me that question?") Perhaps it's the balance of the two that's got you concerned?
Much love, directly,
Sarah
I agree with cerabee. Your directness is definitely a good thing. However, as cerabee pointed out, you aren't brutal with it. But if I answer "yes" to your "Do you really want to ask me that question," then I have to be prepared for the truth. But, from you, I know I'll get the truth.
Take care.
P.S. You were up early.
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