I’m 6 months into a new job that uses a technology I’ve had no experience in (but am trying really hard to learn). Often I get tasks that I have real difficulty with. I flag this: I say that I’ve never done that before and I’ll have difficulty. I get some help, but the task always takes way longer than estimated and is done pretty badly. This puts me under a huge amount of stress and is embarrassing as my tasks often get rejected at QA.
I’m all for learning but its just too much. I need to master things incrementally, not all at once. Or else do a proper course on the subject.
How can I talk to my boss about this without looking like I’m useless or backing away from challenges?
I have found that honesty is the best policy in these situations. I have openly communicated with my supervisor about feeling overwhelmed by tasks that are above my skill level, and together we have come up with a plan for additional training or assistance to help me succeed. It shows initiative and a willingness to improve, rather than incompetence.
I have found that communicating openly with my supervisor about my current skill level and discussing potential training or mentorship opportunities has been helpful in addressing tasks that are above my skill level without feeling like I am incompetent. It shows that I am proactive in seeking solutions and willing to learn and improve.