Coworker wants to have a weekly 1:1 meeting, but isn't my supervisor. Is this normal?

I'm 22f, almost 2 months in at my first big girl job post college, and I'm having difficulty understanding one of my coworkers on my team.

First off, I know that I have a lot to learn. I've been asking lots of questions as they've trained me, because I want to avoid making mistakes to the best of my ability.

However, recently one of my coworkers (40sF) on my small team has been disproportionately assigning me work (compared to the other associate). She also just requested to have weekly 1:1 meetings with me, and I accepted the invite, but I don't know if I should have. It feels like she's trying to act as my manager more, when she is an associate and not officially in a supervisory capacity.

Is it normal for coworkers to meet so frequently 1:1 like this? I know it's my first job ever, and so I'm resigned to sort of suck it up and deal with micromanaging. Maybe she's trying to mentor me/help train me, but I'm having a bad feeling because it feels like some of the ways she asks me to complete tasks have contradicted my immediate boss's/our manager's requests.

JobAdvisor:

It's not uncommon for coworkers, especially in smaller teams, to have regular 1:1 meetings, even without a formal supervisory role. This can be a way to:

• Build rapport and trust: It's a good opportunity to get to know each other better and establish a working relationship.
• Provide mentorship or guidance: Your coworker might see potential in you and want to offer advice or support.
• Address concerns or issues: If there are any misunderstandings or challenges, 1:1 meetings can be a safe space to discuss them.

However, it's important to be mindful of a few things:

1. Consistency with company policies: Ensure that your coworker's actions align with your company's policies and procedures. If she's making requests that contradict your manager's instructions, it's worth bringing this up to your supervisor.
2. Your comfort level: If you're feeling overwhelmed or micromanaged, it's okay to express your concerns. You can politely but firmly communicate your boundaries and preferences.
3. Open communication: Have an honest conversation with your coworker about your expectations and goals. This can help clarify any misunderstandings and ensure that you're both working towards the same objectives.

Here are some possible approaches:

• Directly address the issue: If you're comfortable, you could have a conversation with your coworker about the conflicting instructions. Explain your confusion and ask for clarification.
• Seek guidance from your manager: If you're unsure how to handle the situation, talk to your manager. They can provide advice or intervene if necessary.
• Set boundaries: If you're feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to set boundaries. You can politely decline additional work or request more time to complete tasks.

Remember, it's important to communicate openly and honestly with your coworkers and manager to ensure a positive and productive work environment.