You make a subtle but important distinction between a favour and a responsibility - co-workers shouldn't feel awkward about asking each other to meet their responsibilities. If we feel like we are asking favours, then it could be a sign that the organisation isn't clear on its priorities and people's responsibilities to meet them. If there is too much ambiguity and a lack of alignment, then asking someone to meet their obligations will feel like asking for a favour. You’re asking as an agent of the organisation, as you say, but the organisation needs to know what it wants - and communicate it, build structures to support it, and incentivise it.
Beautifully written, I like this perspective honestly never considered what is mentioned and could see how it can be a social leaky bucket. Reflecting on when I've asked for favours I think 90% are in the "this a real quick request outside of your usual job role" thing but I'll be mindful of not using it as a throw in friendly opener from now on 😬
During the early stages of my career, I almost often did this! This article gave that syndrome a name.
As I got into leadership role, I learned to be direct which indirectly helped with not asking for ‘favors’ when it was their job. Though being intentional about this behavior would have helped me more.
I will remember this when I coach growing leaders.
How did you get the inventory analyst to come around in the end? Could you share examples of how you've framed requests to people who act like they are doing you a favor (when it's really their job)?
You make a subtle but important distinction between a favour and a responsibility - co-workers shouldn't feel awkward about asking each other to meet their responsibilities. If we feel like we are asking favours, then it could be a sign that the organisation isn't clear on its priorities and people's responsibilities to meet them. If there is too much ambiguity and a lack of alignment, then asking someone to meet their obligations will feel like asking for a favour. You’re asking as an agent of the organisation, as you say, but the organisation needs to know what it wants - and communicate it, build structures to support it, and incentivise it.
Great article Wes – something I feel an (unfortunate) lot of folks should have in mind when they come to work.
I love the distinction you made between favors and responsibility. I'd also frame requests as a call for collaboration.
Without team cooperation, many things won't be done.
Part of the job is to be cooperative. So, not hesitating to ask questions or requests is actually a way to have a proactive mindset.
Thank you for writing this, Wes!
Beautifully written, I like this perspective honestly never considered what is mentioned and could see how it can be a social leaky bucket. Reflecting on when I've asked for favours I think 90% are in the "this a real quick request outside of your usual job role" thing but I'll be mindful of not using it as a throw in friendly opener from now on 😬
So good!
"work requests aren’t favors."
"we are agents of this organization."
Use your social capital wisely. ‼️
During the early stages of my career, I almost often did this! This article gave that syndrome a name.
As I got into leadership role, I learned to be direct which indirectly helped with not asking for ‘favors’ when it was their job. Though being intentional about this behavior would have helped me more.
I will remember this when I coach growing leaders.
How did you get the inventory analyst to come around in the end? Could you share examples of how you've framed requests to people who act like they are doing you a favor (when it's really their job)?
Great article
Oooft another heavy hitting post, Wes! Thanks for another great reframe and good recommendations on mitigating this behaviour. Thanks!