Office Politics

I know that working in an office can sometimes mean team work. Working together towards a common goal is crucial and that is how companies become successful. 

In the case of helping out a colleague, where does one draw the line? When you feel like you've got the time to help out a colleague who really needs help, when is it safe to think that they are taking advantage of you as are relying on you to always help out while you have your own work to do. Is it rude to suggest that they need to get an assistant as you are not getting paid extra for the job? Or would it be seen as you not being a team player?

I strongly believe that when your plate gets too full for yourself, you should seek assistance, but I also feel that when you can't handle your work, that should be your problem and you should sort it out with your boss. It is uncomfortable to keep doing someone else's job, and as much as it may earn you that Employee of the month title. You will always be labeled as your job description and the person you're helping will be labeled as theirs. So, who are you really working for and why on earth are you doing it. 

I don't necessarily see being someone else's step ladder a good thing, but I believe in helping out a colleague in need. And I also believe that being taken advantage of won't get t you to where you want to be. That's my view though... Thanks for reading :)

Love, Lo