[jroseattle]

> Why can’t we tell management that a question they asked is non-sensical?

You should absolutely do that (I tell my team to inform me if what I'm asking doesn't make sense.) If I'm coming to someone with a request, it's because I think they're the right person to address it. Just tell me if I'm off-base.

FWIW, I encourage everyone to not care about the hierarchy, so that may not work in every place.

[everdrive]

This is a great point -- and I do, when I can. I guess it's the culture shock that I find most difficult. I'm only asking for clarification so I can fulfill the request more effectively -- but even this is seen as risky and pushy in many businesses.