Insights

08 21 2018

Here at StratComm, there are plenty of interesting and diverse projects. I had been working on our Social Security Administration Verbatim Hearing Recorder (VHR) program, but there were times when I finished the task at hand and wondered if I could help on other projects. I was hesitant to ask at first; I thought, “If I’m needed on a project, someone will approach me about it.” It’s no surprise that this didn’t work—how could my coworkers know I was interested and had the time if I never said anything? 

So, one day I decided to go for it and ask if I could be of any help on other projects, and I’m glad I did! My workday has become much more dynamic as I take on new assignments. Plus, the new work keeps me on my toes. 

Here are some tips from my experience on how to diversify and take on new roles—or “wear many hats”—at work:

1. Let others know you’re available—don’t be afraid to ask!

The bottom line is this: It never hurts to ask. Even if your help isn’t needed initially, your coworkers will remember that you are interested in expanding your skill set and may very well involve you in the future. Don’t wait to be asked– make it happen yourself!

2. Ask for help with your own tasks.

Just as it’s important to ask if you can help others, it’s also crucial to recognize when you need some help yourself. Remember that it’s better to ask for assistance than to turn in a time-sensitive project late. As you begin to take on new responsibilities at work, you may feel that your list of tasks is growing longer and longer, which brings me to my next point…

3. Cultivate the ability to switch gears.

You did it! You’ve been invited to join the team on a project you’re really excited about. So, now what? How will you fit your new tasks into your already busy workday? This is the time to learn how to switch gears throughout the day. Allot two hours to work on one project, then move on to something completely different. If you don’t get as far as you want in those two hours, it’s okay to take a break from Project A so you can turn your attention to Project B. In other words, take off one hat and put on another.

4. Make a list of priorities daily, as they can fluctuate.

As you juggle your new duties, make sure to communicate with your team frequently to see if deadlines or expectations have shifted. What was top priority on Monday may have moved down the list by Wednesday. Knowing where each of your tasks stand in terms of time management will help you keep things on track and allow you to switch hats with ease.

—Jen Bilicki, StratComm Assistant Project Manager

Visit our News and Portfolio pages to see the result of all the hat wearing that we do at StratComm.