Running Personal Errands for Boss


By Philip Friedman/Studio D

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Your boss constantly asks you to run personal errands for her. Although you don't mind helping out in a pinch, you don't want her to make a habit of asking you for personal favors. What to do?

1) Just say, "Sorry, I'm working on another project right now."2) Pull your boss aside and explain that you don't mind helping her out when she gets in a jam, but your work is suffering due to the time you're spending on her personal errands.
3) Placate your boss and do as she asks.


The correct answer: (2) While it's fine to help the boss out once in a while, her personal errands shouldn't keep you from getting your work done. In many cases, administrative assistants to high-level executives conduct personal business for their bosses. When this is the expectation, it should be spelled out in the job description and discussed during a job interview. If this isn't the case for you, speak up. In a calm, nonconfrontational and pleasant way, let your boss know that you're happy to help when you're off doing errands for yourself. But you can't run her errands regularly and still get your job done.

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