The idea of being given more power and responsibility at work is often seen as a positive step towards career growth and potential promotion. However, according to recruitment specialist Adrien Kallel, it can also be a warning sign. In an interview with HuffPost UK, Kallel shared his insights on how being overworked can actually hurt your career.
While more trust and a broader job scope may seem like a welcome change, Kallel cautions that if it comes out of nowhere and is overwhelming, it can be a “trap”. This tactic can be subtle, with managers presenting it as a development opportunity and hinting at a potential promotion. But if the expectations suddenly become unrealistic and you are set up to fail, it could be part of a plan to phase you out.
Being given an overwhelming amount of work can be a sneaky way for a manager to label you as “underperforming”. They can then use this as a reason to phase you out of the company. This can be a tough pill to swallow, especially when you have been given the impression that you are being given a chance to shine.
So why would being given more responsibility hurt your career? Kallel explains that it can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. It can also be a sign that your employer is not valuing your time and efforts, and is instead using you as a means to an end. This can be demotivating and can ultimately lead to a negative impact on your career.
If you notice this happening in your workplace, it is important to take action to protect yourself. Kallel advises calmly raising your concerns in writing, rather than just verbally. This creates a record of your concerns and shows that you are willing to address the issue. Be specific in your wording and ask for clarification on the new expectations, support that will be provided, and what success looks like under these new terms.
It is also important to trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. These conversations should be had early on, rather than waiting until HR is involved. This shows that you are proactive and willing to address any potential issues before they escalate.
While it may not be a great feeling to have to protect yourself in the workplace, it is necessary to ensure your own career growth and well-being. Kallel reminds us that we should always trust our guts and be proactive in addressing any concerns.
In conclusion, being overworked and given an overwhelming amount of responsibility at work can have a negative impact on our careers. It is important to be aware of the signs and take action to protect ourselves. By calmly addressing our concerns and trusting our instincts, we can ensure a positive and successful career.
