Raising your hand: Doesn't always mean a Yes.

During my 10+ years in consulting, I’ve had the chance to work on many diverse projects and initiatives. This has been been partly because of the amazing network of colleagues, clients and mentors, but also because I have never hesitated to ‘raise my hand’. A mentor once shared, quoting Sheryl Sandberg, “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat! Just get on!”. Many times, raising my hand has helped me get on assignments that I’m passionate about and also ones that benefit our teams, my practice and the firm. Fast forward to my first child and I still wanted to be on that ship, but this time a submarine kind of vessel so I could be ‘under radar’ for some time! Over the years and as a mother of two young children, especially during this pandemic, I have realized that in addition to raising your hand to say yes, it is totally ok to raise your hand and say No, or simply ask for help as you prioritize what you need to be successful. Here are some tips that may help those who may be about to board the ‘rocket ship’.   

Remember, it’s not the last mission.

When you come across an opportunity, it could be a project, a new role, the chance to work outside of your comfort zone, just ask yourself- am I excited about this? Will this help me grow? And if the answer is yes, take it! But also know, that if you decide not to, there will always be another opportunity, another chance, and perhaps you’ll be more ready or excited for it when it does come up, so don’t worry about raising your hand for everything. In fact, being selective will help you carefully choose and build your path and seek out experiences that will enrich you. 

If you want the seat, ask for it.

Rather than waiting to raise your hand once the opportunity comes along, be proactive about seeking out roles, projects or initiatives that draw on your passion and align with your career goals. Then, be proactive about getting in touch with people who can help you become involved early on. If you want a new role, then try to build a network and share your interest in the department/organization you are interested in. This way, you will be ‘top of mind’ when an opportunity comes along and that goes a long way.

Set and communicate priorities.

It’s important to be transparent about what you can or cannot take on. Especially during this new normal WFH, it’s easy for boundaries to get blurred. But drawing the line, and managing your workload in relation to all the other responsibilities upon us right now, is paramount for your well-being. I’ve found that setting some dedicated time blocks in my calendar for bedtime routines or morning ‘log-in’ routines for homeschool, helps a lot. It’s also important to communicate the support you’ll need when taking on a new assignment, or communicating realistic timelines for what you do take on. Remember, you are in the driver’s seat of your own rocket ship, so don’t overload the engine.

Seek out crew and co-pilot support.

You may think you can do it all, but it’s wise to know when you need help and ask for it. I have never been able to ‘deliver’ anything alone, it is always team effort. So, when you feel overwhelmed or have too much on your plate, try to prioritize and set realistic timelines for what’s ahead, and lean into team support to get things across the finish line. Remember, team work makes the dream work.

Offer a boost to those getting on.

Paying it forward is one of the best gifts I have received, and in turn shared with others. I remember being offered a dream project that required relocation to Dubai. I was so excited about it, but yet I knew that I couldn’t possibly make the move and uproot my small family. Instead of passing on the opportunity, I shared it with a colleague who I knew would be an amazing fit. So, instead of saying ‘no’ to something that’s not right for you, always try to make way and pave the path for others who will benefit from the opportunities. And as you grow in your career, always remember to share opportunities and take the chance on others who are truly  ready to get on that ship!