It is one thing to be inefficient; it is far worse is to have a reputation for inefficiency. Sometimes, of course, the two things go together – the reputation is justified. Sometimes a hard-working person can conceal their inefficiency – they just work longer and harder than most people do. Probably the best way to gain an unjustified reputation for inefficiency is to wander round asking the wrong questions of the wrong people.
'Hi, I need an ID badge' 'You want Mike, down the hall'
'Hello, do you sort the post?' 'No, go to Reception'
'My chair is broken' 'Tell them in the Office'
'I'm looking for my photocopying' 'Try Reprographics'
'Could you help me, please' 'I'm sorry, I don't work here, I'm a parent'
Don't let this be you. Make sure that you can deal professionally with the other trades and professions who keep the school running.