Dear Anne Marie: A lot of my projects have to go through various other departments before completion. I get my end done rather quickly only to find that they get jammed up in someone else's In Box. I'm the one who looks bad because deadlines are missed. What can I do?
    —Carrie B.

Dear Carrie: You are a conscientious woman who cares about her reputation. You have high standards that you aim for daily, only to feel thwarted by others. Addressing this issue is essential if you want to maintain your high standards, be in your integrity, and truly enjoy your job.

Managing The Moment

The "Moment to Manage" is your feeling of aggravation. Aggravation is a harmful reaction that can quickly escalate into anger and resentment. In the short term, resentment inhibits good communication and problem solving. In the long run, it can seriously hamper your reputation and your sense of well-being.

The Game Plan

First, talk to the people involved in your projects. Let them know how important it is to you to meet your deadlines. Ask for their co-operation and offer to co-operate with them in return. Find out if there are reasons beyond their control for the tardiness of the reports.

Second, write a weekly report. If you are not already writing a weekly report for your supervisor, begin now. The purpose of this report is to keep your boss informed about your projects and the week's events. Make sure your report includes the date you completed your portion of the project, as well as the date and the person to whom you passed it to for additional work.

Third, leave a paper trail. After you place the project in the mail for delivery, e-mail the person you are sending it to and inform him that 1) the project is on its way, 2) the date it needs to be completed by, and 3) who it needs to be sent to next. Make sure you cc this e-mail to all the people involved in the project.

Fourth, request an e-mail confirmation. Ask each person involved in the project to e-mail you when his or her portion has been completed and forwarded to the next person. If you do not receive a confirmation you can call and check on the status of the work.

Finally, don't make assumptions. Assumptions about people and events are rarely 100% accurate. It is especially easy to make assumptions when things don't progress as you'd like them to, so keep an open mind when you investigate the problem. By maintaining an open mind you will easily win the support of others while minimizing your aggravation and protecting your reputation.