Not getting trained in my new job. How do I bring it up? Started a new job and this is my 5th and I’ve had zero training. There was confusion about what my role will be but it’s been 5 weeks now and the women who’s meant to be training me hasn’t shown me anything. She will sometimes be out the office for a few hours and then tell me ‘everything is done / set up’ and I’m like great??? But surely you should show me so I know. I don’t know what my daily routine should be and I just feel useless at work. A few people have told me they have issues with her as she’s not very knowledgeable. Yet she tells me she’s worked in this type of role for years and has trained lots of people. The odd time she will bring me along to show me that everything is ‘set up’ and says I don’t need to worry as they have students who help out to set it up, but I feel I should still know how it’s done as it’s part of my job. I feel like it shouldn’t be on my shoulders to chase her round the building to see where she is to train me, or maybe I’m in the wrong for that? I’m from the UK but working in the Middle East and I’m not sure if or how to bring this up as I don’t want to upset people. Do you think I am ok to mention this or should I do more on my side?

Bring it up to your manager

Agree with @Yi_eune, in addition are there other coworkers who have been there a bit longer (potentially foreigners like you) who you could ask about the norms in your workplace and for advice around this?

I was about to suggest bring it up to your supervisor, but then you mentioned that you’re in the Middle East. There may be some cultural norms there that make doing what you’d normally do in the US different. Since you’re in the Middle East, I wonder if workplace hierarchy and indirect communication styles might be more prevalent. If going directly to the manager isn’t an option, you could try finding a mentor-like figure in the workplace or framing your request in a way that highlights your eagerness rather than frustration. You might try these things: Since there was initial confusion about the role, you might want to have a direct conversation with your manager (if culturally appropriate) or another supervisor to confirm your responsibilities. You can frame it as a desire to be effective: “I want to make sure I’m meeting expectations. Could we review my key tasks so I can focus on the right priorities?”Something like that. Or, Something like: “I really appreciate the opportunity here. I want to make sure I’m learning correctly—do you have any recommendations for additional training materials or time with someone who can walk me through the process?” This way, you aren’t accusing the trainer of not doing their job but are proactively seeking a solution.