Covering for Vacations
August is the time of year when many of us go on vacation. This is also a GREAT time to take on a new task or short term project at work. If there is a particular responsibility you would like to try out (or think you need experience with in order to get a promotion), why not volunteer to cover that aspect for a vacationing co-worker?
It’s the classic “win-win” situation! Expectations are lower, so you will have time to learn a new skill. Your co-worker will appreciate the help while s/he is gone. Customers and other major stakeholders will receive special treatment!
So, while your colleagues are on vacation, volunteer to cover a certain aspect of their duties that you may want (or need) to know more about. Everyone will win, and YOU can rightfully claim to have gained a new (marketable) job skill.
Hi Sean,
This is a great idea for a few reasons. For one thing, these duties may already be slated to be pushed on to us and asking to learn about them shows dedication and commitment to learning and growing within the company. Also even if we would not have been assigned these duties, we can show a lot of initiative and drive by volunteering. Thanks!
-Ghadah (MIM 2007)
Comment by Anonymous — August 21, 2007 @ 10:47 pm
Hello Sean,
I never think about this idea before. The idea gives some opportunities for me to learn new task and also get a new friend. One thing that comes up in my mind and stop my idea to volunteer is “Can I do that task.” However, it is better to try rather than let that chance go!!
Peet
Comment by peet — August 24, 2007 @ 4:32 pm
I agree with Ghadah, taking the initiative to learn something new not only shows that we are dedicated to the company but also shows our supervisors that we are capable of doing task other than our own job. It is definitely a win-win situation!
Comment by Cristin Fnu — August 24, 2007 @ 6:34 pm