The Doof Collection

Hey again, sorry for the late reply, I’ve been away travelling and need to catch up. There are a few limitations here, but you’ll pick it up bit by bit – it depends on each situation, so don’t worry too much!

Define your boundaries: Be clear about which tasks fall within your role and which requests exceed your time or capacity

Set a schedule: Stick to your start and finish times, switch off work notifications outside those hours, and schedule regular breaks throughout the day.

Communicate assertively: Learning to say ‘no’ does not mean you lack commitment. You can explain your reasons or negotiate deadlines

Create physical and mental boundaries: If you work from home, separate your workspace from your relaxation area and establish a ritual to switch off at the end of the working day

Unfortunately, and speaking from personal experience, it seems there are managers whose respect you have to earn, and in the end you just have to do your job as best you can.

Here are a few tips that I hope will be useful:

Adapt your communication style to theirs: Don’t communicate the way you like to, but in a way that best suits how your manager processes information.

Be predictable: Managers hate last-minute surprises (projects delayed on the day of the deadline, budgets exceeded without warning).

Visibility: If you realise you won’t meet a deadline, give a few days’ notice.

Dealing with mistakes: If you make a mistake, admit it straight away, explain what you’ve learnt and how you’re going to put it right. Honesty dispels mistrust.

Ask for specific feedback: What skills do you think I should develop to improve in my role?

Show initiative: Talk about your medium-term career aspirations within the company.