APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives her expert advice to a reader who feels burnt out after a staffing crisis.
Q: I work as a chef in a pub and we’re chronically understaffed.
Three months ago, our head chef left, and he hasn’t been replaced, meaning I have had to step up.
I was happy to do this for a couple of weeks until the manager found someone new (or even offered me the role), but there has been no job advert or any sign they are looking for someone, and my stress levels are sky-high, especially as we’re about to hit our busiest time of year.
My questions aren’t being answered, and my job is so busy with long hours that it doesn’t allow me time to schedule a meeting.
I feel so burnt out and I’m not sure how much longer I can carry on. Help!
Chrissy
A: You’ve clearly gone above and beyond by stepping up when your head chef left and keeping the kitchen running, which shows real leadership and resilience.
But there’s a big difference between stepping up and being taken for granted.
Three months on, you’re still doing a senior role without the title, pay or support – and that’s not good enough.
Hard work should be rewarded, not exploited.
If you’re finding it difficult scheduling a face-to-face meeting with your manager, send an email requesting a proper chat about your role and responsibilities, within your current working hours.
Go in prepared, with clear evidence – what extra duties you’ve taken on, how many extra hours you’ve worked and how you’ve kept things running smoothly.
Be clear that you’re capable of running the kitchen, but if you’re doing the head chef’s job, you want to be recognised and paid for it.
Finally, look after yourself.
Burnout helps no one, so prioritise your sleep and rest time, set boundaries and, if nothing changes, take your talent elsewhere!
