How to Ask Employers for More Support in Your Role

Overwhelmed at the workplace? You're not alone. Too many employees are overwhelmed with too much work, fuzzy objectives, or even equipment shortages to get your job done to success. Instead of suffering in silence, requesting help can change your experience.

Know What You Need

The secret to being able to get more help is being clear about what you require. Wishy-washy grievances like "I'm too busy" will never bring about permanent change. Walk through your responsibilities and find particular tasks in which you are getting overwhelmed. Is the load of the job too heavy? Do you need training in performing some tasks so that you're sure you're performing them well? Could automation or outsourcing to leaders like King Kong free time up to work on other important tasks? Finding specifics will give a solid basis for discussion.

Consider keeping a journal for a week and logging instances of stress or inefficiency. Specific examples make this much easier to explain to your employer.

Schedule a Meeting

After you have established what you need, it is a good idea to discuss it with your manager. Arrange a specific meeting rather than mentioning the issue briefly. Make it a constructive environment by positioning the conversation as an opportunity for improving your productivity and performance for the team, and not as a criticism.

During the meeting, use "I" statements to focus on your perspective. For example, say, "I feel overwhelmed by the volume of client emails and could use additional support to respond effectively," rather than, "You’ve given me too many tasks." Clear communication fosters a collaborative, problem-solving dialogue.

Propose Thoughtful Solutions

Don't define problems—define solutions. This shows you're taking charge and presenting yourself as a go-getting professional. Write down specific things your employer can do to lighten your workload. For instance, suggest outsourcing routine tasks, spending money on new software to automate tasks, or spreading some of the workload across the team.

Try rephrasing the ask in terms of company benefits, not your own. For example, "By outsourcing data entry, I can devote more time to client strategy, which has a direct impact on our revenue goals." This makes it easier for managers to see the benefit in adopting your ideas.

Follow Up and Stay Engaged

It is not a single conversation seeking work place action. Be sure to follow up with your manager on the solutions you agreed to implement and progress you made. Sending a quick follow-up email after meeting will assist in documenting key takeaways and follow-through steps.

If the changes are made, utilize them positively to demonstrate how they are helping to make a positive contribution. If you are still not receiving the support that you need, it is time to re-open the conversation, highlight gaps, and re-emphasize the value added support could bring to your performance.

Take Charge of Your Experience

All professionals must have a balanced, supportive working environment. By knowing your needs, being able to communicate, and proposing solutions, you can improve your daily work for the better and earn your employer's respect. Asking for help is not weakness, but a step towards progress, for you and your company as well.