Gofer

A 'gofer,' a colloquial term, refers to a person whose job involves running errands or performing miscellaneous tasks, often for a boss or supervisor. This role typically involves assisting with a variety of duties, ranging from fetching coffee and making copies to handling light administrative work and carrying items. The term emphasizes the subservient nature of the position, highlighting the expectation to 'go for' things as requested. A gofer's work contributes to the smooth operation of an office or organization by relieving more senior staff of minor tasks, thereby allowing them to focus on more crucial aspects of their jobs. The position is often entry-level, providing experience for upward mobility, but may also remain a stable position for long periods of time.

Gofer meaning with examples

• During her internship at the law firm, Sarah was essentially a gofer. She spent most of her time making copies, getting coffee for the senior partners, and delivering documents around the office. Although the work was not always glamorous, she knew it was valuable experience and hoped to learn from the exposure. She carefully observed how the lawyers conducted themselves and the different type of work they handle, preparing for her future.
• The film set was bustling with activity, and dozens of crew members scrambled to fulfill their assigned tasks. The newest member of the team was a gofer, constantly running back and forth, carrying equipment, and delivering messages. He understood that this role served as his initiation and gave him the best opportunity to demonstrate reliability and commitment, to hopefully earn a more meaningful position later on.
• The office manager relied heavily on her assistant, who acted as a dedicated gofer. His day involved restocking supplies, sending out mail, and occasionally helping with the reception desk during peak hours. She appreciated his willingness to take on any task and his proactive approach to solving everyday problems. His efficiency kept the office functioning seamlessly, even under challenging circumstances.
• As a gofer for the local politician, the young graduate found himself immersed in the political process. His responsibilities included collecting petitions, organizing events, and distributing promotional material. Despite the long hours, he found the experience invaluable, and he knew that by networking and learning from the team, he could open doors to more interesting and challenging roles in the future.
• Before becoming a software developer, John worked as a gofer for a tech startup. He spent his days fetching snacks, setting up meeting rooms, and running other minor errands, and, during some downtime, he'd observe how the developers tackled projects. It gave him direct insight into the daily lives of tech workers, which would help him realize what skills he needed to learn to pursue this career.