Is it normal for a manager of another department to give you orders? ?

Question

So we had a new employee come a few months back, who was young and nice. I am new to offices, so I dont know the way to respond. Today she gave me something to do via email, with a due date. I first thought "why is she bossing me around", but then I saw on her email signature "Marketing & conference manager"--A different department than mine.

Answer 1

I suggest you clarify with your supervisor what the chain of command is, or you may wind up in a precarious place.  If this person does have authority over you, you need to know.  If not, your supervisor needs to be aware that you are being given tasks by this person that may take away from your time doing your assigned work.

Answer 2

You would have to check with company policy. It's inevitable that some departments within the same company will have tasks that overlap

Answer 3

I would discuss this with your immediate supervisor.  In some companies, it is common for managers to give you assignments regardless of department, but remember, you can take issue with any assignment that is contrary to what your job description says are your assigned tasks.  

In this case, ask your immediate supervisor if this task is in fact your responsibility.

Answer 4

Maybe not normal but just do it and don't make waves