Ask Ash: Helicopter overhead

I have a lovely line manager who is very supportive and well meaning. However, she has a habit of interfering in my workload to the point that if I’m finishing off a piece of work she will hover over me, and then start to dictate the actual content of the legal document. It’s quite embarrassing in an open office environment and I feel undermined, especially as I’m used to working autonomously and am not a junior member of staff. I have tried to indicate gently to her that I can complete my work without her help, but she seems to insist on helping and this is starting to impact my confidence levels.

You seem to effectively have the equivalent to a “helicopter parent”, i.e. a parent who “hovers overhead” and oversees every aspect of their child’s life. Even with the best of intentions, this is arguably not the most effective way to parent or indeed manage someone.

You have indicated that you are not at junior level, and therefore there is no need for your manager to behave in this way. It comes down to a sense of control, and it is essential that you look to address this behaviour as otherwise you will effectively become like a PA typing up your manager’s dictation.

I suggest you arrange an informal catch-up with your manager and confirm that you would like to discuss your future career development and training. At this meeting, you should seek feedback about your work and take the opportunity to highlight that you are keen and able to work autonomously; and that you are happy to confer with your manager should you have any specific concerns about your caseload. Highlight that you know how busy she is and that you do not want to place any undue burden on her as you are capable of dealing with your workload autonomously.

The meeting should also allow your manager the opportunity to highlight any concerns too, and allow you both to agree a way forward. Good luck!

“Ash” is a solicitor who is willing to answer work-related queries from solicitors and other legal professionals, which can be put to them via the editor. Confidence will be respected and any advice published will be anonymised.

Please note that letters to Ash are not received at the Law Society of Scotland. The Society offers a support service for trainees through its Education, Training & Qualifications team. Email legaleduc@lawscot.org.uk or phone 0131 226 7411 (select option 3).