Description:
Several coworkers regularly ask me for long resumes critiques, mock interviews, portfolio reviews, or help preparing for interviews — often during my focused work hours. I want to be collegial and support coworkers’ careers, but this is cutting into my paid work and increasing my stress. How can I set clear, professional boundaries and say no without coming off as rude or unhelpful? What polite scripts, policies (office hours, limited sessions), or alternative offers (group workshops, curated resources, paid coaching referrals) have worked in workplaces? How should I respond if someone pushes back or expects special treatment because we’re friendly?
1 Answer
You're not obliged to be everyone's free career coach. Short, consistent boundaries work best. Try a quick script like "I can't do that during my work hours, but I can do a 30 minute review on Friday after 5 or share some resources" or "I can give 10 minutes of quick feedback, otherwise I need to schedule time outside work." Set a simple policy: weekly office hours, two 30 minute sessions per month, or group workshops. Curate a resource list and a few paid coach referrals to offer. If someone pushes, restate your boundary calmly, offer the scheduled option or resources, and don't over-explain. Persistent pressure gets handled the same way. Firm. Friendly. Consistent.
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