Taking On More Responsibility at Work

Think you're ready to take on more responsibilities at work or maybe it's time for a promotion? There are several ways to make that case to your employer. Today, we are sharing some tips on how to show that you can handle more responsibility. But, first you'll want to assess how you're performing your current job. Is your work consistently on time and accurate? Are you meeting your company's goals for your position? Are you getting positive feedback from your supervisor? If that's all true, consider some of these tips.

Volunteer to help with additional tasks

Being a team player is one of the best ways to show that you're excited to be there and happy to help. Even if a project is beyond your usual tasks, with your supervisor's permission, ask if you can help. If you see another team or department struggle with a project, offer your assistance when possible. This shows that you're willing to step outside of your normal duties, and you're organized enough to take on additional tasks without neglecting your own. Your supervisor will see your ability to be efficient. In addition, this will give you experience in a different area and help expand your capabilities.

Take free courses to increase your skills

If you notice an area at your job that no one has a handle on, consider learning it yourself if possible. For example, if no one at your job is skilled at Microsoft Excel, but it's an important program to know in your line of work, consider taking a free course at your local library or online.

Ask for a mentor

If you're looking to advance in an area or move to a different department, seek out a mentor in that area. A mentor can share more details with you about the skills you'll need to succeed there. Ask to shadow the mentor on a typical project in that department. You can gain a better understanding and learn how you may fit in. Check out our blog post the Right Mentor. You'll find more information on working with a mentor to make it a productive and fun relationship.

Share ideas to solve problems

Many aspects of work offer challenges that can be fixed simply by someone taking a fresh look. These ideas don't always come from the people currently in the department. Sometimes an employee outside the department may have a solution that others may have overlooked because they deal with these challenges daily. If you see a problem that's not in your area, try to come up with some well-thought-out ideas to share with a member of that department. You may have suggestions for solving a problem they've been wrestling with for a while. Sharing these suggestions respectfully shows you are helpful and resourceful. These are the qualities employers look for in their top workers.

Take initiative at your job and you'll have a great chance of showing that you're ready for more responsibilities. Growing in your career can be a rewarding part of your employment journey. With a positive attitude and consistent contributions at work, you're on your way!

Connect with Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program

The Ticket Program may be able to help you find a resource. The Ticket Program connects you with free employment services to help decide if working is right for you and prepares you for work. Your Ticket to Work service provider can help you find ways to learn new skills for work. Demonstrating a new skill is a great way to show that you can take on responsibility and solve problems.

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.