Several years ago, I had the privilege to serve in a mid-level leadership position. It was a very demanding job. I was responsible for the redesign and marketing of a specific program. Additionally, I oversaw the recruitment and retention of clients.
When I assumed my position, our program was struggling. To rebuild and rebrand the program, my team had a lot of work to do. After three years, we began to see the fruits of our labor pay off. Our program began to grow.
In addition to working on our program, I assumed additional duties outside my regular functions. As a result, some days I didn’t leave my office until late evening. While I found myself overwhelmed at times, I also expanded my skill set.
Many of my colleagues thought I was crazy for taking on additional tasks. I remember a conversation we had at one of our meetings. I’d assumed responsibility for preparing the reports for our bi-weekly reviews with headquarters. One of my colleagues ask me “why was I doing the report?”
I told my colleague, I asked for the additional responsibility because I wanted to be promoted to the next level. She commented she also wanted to be promoted. I explained that I wanted to be prepared for the job, and the additional responsibilities would help with my preparation.
Well, a few years after that conversation, I was promoted to the leader of my organization. While I didn’t know everything about the job, my extra duties significantly reduced my learning curve and made me a more effective leader. As for my colleague, she is still waiting for her opportunity.
When I coach clients, who are frustrated in their careers, I always ask them “what are they doing above and beyond their required duties?” Most of the time they give the same response my colleague gave.
I explained when you take on more responsibility, you grow professionally and personally. Assuming additional responsibility also demonstrates to your boss, you are prepared to move to the next level. Yes, it’s more work, but it will pay off in the future.
So, how can you take on more responsibility? According to Alex Cavoulacos, there are five ways to volunteer for additional responsibilities:
- Have a conversation with your boss
- Assist your busy co-workers
- Become an expert in your field
- Be proactive and take the initiative
- Participate in extracurricular actives
As you take on more responsibility, remember this wise advice;
“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.”
Lou Holtz
Are you volunteering for more responsibility?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Lead Confidently | Expand Influence | Achieve Significance
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