Phoenix Business Daily

How do I deal with a boss that has unrealistic goals for me?

Earlier this year, my boss laid out 8 major goals for me. In and of themselves, all were attainable. However, each month there are one or two "fires" that come up that he puts me on to solve. In July, I started working an extra 3-4 hours a day to dedicate to my goals, but this time gets filled quickly by extra work that he serves up for me to do. Unfortunately, he grades his employees success by how many documented goals that get accomplished, and does not consider the extra assignments in the overall review. Ideas?

Public Comments

1. Work goals are (or at least should be) negotiable, and should be re-evaluated as the year progresses. I suggest talking to your boss. Tell him that with the extra things that have come up you are concerned that you will no longer have time to meet your goals. Keep it positive; avoid a complaining attitude. Come to the meeting with a plan to get the most important things done, and perhaps suggest dropping one of the goals. Another thing to keep in mind is that the fires that pop up (and this happens to most everyone) are often not as important as they seem at the time. Find some time management system that works for you; I suggest reading about several, because different systems work for people with different styles. Beware of things that are urgent but not important. Learn to say no to those things.
2. Just flat out tell him you can't do it. Say something like "I'm sorry Mr. (whatever his name is) but with the goals you previously set for me I just don't have enough time to complete any extra tasks at this time". Good luck!
3. Your boss constantly tests you to find out what your level of incompentency is. I don't think he expects everyone to actually achieve all the goals he sets for everyone, just wants to push you so you learn to work to the highest level you can. As you get used to things, you'll find you do some things better and better (and faster and faster) with the practice. Just do what you can as you can, when asked "how's it coming along" give an honest report but make it sound like you've been slaving over it all and making progress. Don't whine. Don't complain. Just plow ahead, learn the shortcuts to take (and don't divulge you have shortcuts). Keep a good attitude and just keep juggling. When you find you can't take it anymore, start looking for another job (keep that resume updated).