How to Manage Expectations at Work

By Tanvi Rastogi @tanviidotcom

One of the realities of any job is that there are rarely defined roles or job description. You are often hired under one role but might be covering overlapping areas. Hence, the stress of undefined work expectations. Every work place is different but mostly the rules and roles are 'work-in-progress'. Few ways I have found to keep my sanity while working through the challenges are as follow: 

Set Your Own Goals

Don't wait around for someone else to create goals for you. In lieu of a direction and objectives set by management for your position, set your own goals. Identify the parameters within which you can work and make decisions and then find ways to remove obstacles and improve your efficiency. No one is going to complain about high productivity. 

Actively Communicate

Just because no one clearly defined your work expectations doesn't mean they don't exist. Management often gets focused on their own goals and responsibilities that they do not recognize the need to direct their team members. Ask for a meeting or informally inquire about opportunities to take on greater responsibility. You may also collaborate in setting goals for work over the next few months. In some cases, company goals are in flux, so it is hard to direct individual workers. 

Focus on Professionalism

You may have a general idea of the work that is expected but not the targets or levels of productivity. Don't let that lead to complacency. Just because the management fails to communicate targets doesn't mean you won't be assessed for your work. Focus on always projecting a professional presence and to establish healthy work habits that aid in your current role as well as in future ones.

Lastly, this can be a cause for stress, however you must maintain adequate work-life balance. Don't let undefined job expectations hang over your head at home or in personal life. 
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How's your week been so far?