Clear Communication Starts with Clarifying Questions

Serving on search committees and special project assignments often means taking on responsibilities outside of your normal daily operations.

Who is responsible for managing your “other duties as assigned”? In a previous role, after being placed on multiple committees, I asked my direct supervisor what a reasonable number of committee assignments looked like. They shared that two to three committees were typical and explained that, as a mid-level manager, I was expected to offer leadership and guidance to junior staff through this work.

At times, the work was meaningful. I valued the opportunity to serve on search committees, review resumes and cover letters, and help determine the most qualified candidates. More often than not, however, the work became exhausting. When responsibilities were labeled as “other duties as assigned,” it became difficult to manage competing priorities alongside my core responsibilities. A shift had to happen. I began to ask more intentional questions: What is the time commitment? How often will meetings occur? What are the expected roles? Who is leading the work? What are the intended outcomes of the committee? Often, these questions were met with uncertainty, as others had not fully considered the scope of responsibility involved in various projects.

Recently, I was approached to assist with a hiring search. Based on my prior experience and expertise, I was a natural fit. Still, being new to my role, I hesitated. I asked several questions and exchanged multiple emails.

One message, in particular, was sent to my immediate supervisor, and I appreciated their support and understanding that my workload was already full. Because my response was not immediate, the hiring manager assumed my silence signaled agreement. I later received an email outlining next steps in the search process and an anticipated meeting schedule. Slightly taken aback, I explained that I did not have the capacity to support this initiative at that time.

Time is not a luxury that should be taken for granted. Before volunteering, consider the full scope of the committee or assignment. Ask yourself the following questions.

1. How does this assignment align with my job description?

2. What are the meeting expectations and time commitments outside of meetings? 

3. How many assignments am I already expected to manage?

Clear communication begins with asking clarifying questions. Claim your time, claim your peace.