You Are More Than Your Job Description

On more than one occasion in career and leadership coaching sessions, I encounter people who feel limited by their job description and forget that they are more than the bullet points on paper (or rather LinkedIn, I should say). A job description is there to serve as a guide and reminder that there are tasks to be done to solve/reimagine an existing problem. Keep in mind that someone wrote that job description to fill a need — but thankfully that person is not a fortune teller and cannot predict how you will go about those tasks.

Studies have shown that women will not apply to a job unless they fulfill 100% of the criteria. What a shame! Do not let bullet points deter you. Yes, there are some requirements which must be met — and there are also nice to have experiences that are sought out, but not mandatory. Take the time to see how the required tasks and skills might translate for you.

Maybe you can identify more creative ways to do something once you’re on board, or you see opportunities to streamline the existing tasks. Even better — perhaps you have a higher personal bar set for yourself and can use this role as practice. Whatever your reason, there is an opportunity to look for the bigger picture beyond the bullet points. Ask yourself: what is the impact I want to have? What do I want to learn? Whom do I need to help?

So when you look at a job description — whether you are applying to a new role or simply revisiting your current position — please also remind yourself that this may well be a starting point which you can leverage. Don’t go completely off script with your role, but know that oftentimes — particularly with the flexibility required these days — there is room for some imagination. Of course, some jobs have more clearly defined responsibilities with less wiggle room — but many are an invitation to complete the required tasks and then some. Examine your unique value proposition: what you bring that makes this job tailor-made for you. 

And as a leader: the best opportunity you can give to your employees is to elevate them beyond their job description — when they are ready, and oftentimes even before they are ready. Activate visibility valves, and invite people to the table.

We are all more than a laundry list of tasks; thank goodness! Don’t ever let a job description throw you off key or knock your confidence. Use it as a springboard to own your talents and strive to get more of what YOU want out of a job, as well as delivering your best work for the organisation.

With joy,

Dr. Helen