Asking for more structure in a new role?

[McDougal]

Is it always seen as a negative?

I've not long started a new role. New organisation. New work area. Brand new programme. Some mapping has been done as to what they want out of the project but a lot is being asked of me in terms of planning, outcomes and prepping for a new staff member starting soon. Combined with a manager that has a very clear vision of how she wants things done (but doesn't communicate the detail well) it feels like I spend a lot of time second guessing myself trying to do what I think is required only to find I've missed the mark.

So is having an open and honest conversation with my direct line manager (not the programme manager) to say how I'm feeling always the death knell I think it might be?

No, asking for clarity is a good course of action. If they can’t/won’t provide it then you’re prob not in a very good workplace!

I have a manager like this by the way - I’m sent away to do vague tasks and planning and the response is never good when I ask for clarity, as she actually has no idea what she’s doing and wants me to do the work so she can take the credit! It’s a big reason I’m leaving the team shortly.

Schedule daily catch ups. Here's the list of tasks, here's my progress on them, here's the document I've produced etc.

You show her step by step everything you're doing and give her daily opportunity to review and feedback.

Thanks for responses @Doorhandleghost and @Goldenclouds.

I do wonder whether it's just a completely different culture to what I'm used to but the thought of it not being a good fit has crossed my mind already and I'm only a few weeks in.

I wish daily catch ups were an option but that's not how people work here.

There should be an opportunity to feedback next week so I'll just be honest and see how far it gets me!