One of the more common conversations that I have had with colleagues and former mentees over the years is how to balance (and not become overburdened by) service roles, particularly at the mid-career level. Many have observed that the moment one is promoted to Associate Professor the service requests within the university increase. By this time in one’s career, their work within the field is also more known and individuals are now asked to write promotion letters for others, serve on boards, provide talks, hold editorial positions, etc., in addition to the service that you have already been providing. Service at all levels (i.e., one’s department, the larger institution, and the field) is important and necessary, but one needs to not let these roles consume their time and effort. However, it is incredibly hard to say “no” when asked to sit on a committee, peer review an article, or take on a leadership role. There is not a set formula for selecting service roles or a particular amount that one is “supposed” to take on. The only thing that is clear is that most of us cannot do all that we are requested to do - we have to say “no” to some asks. Below are some suggestions that I have found helpful in attempting to be strategic in determining what service roles to commit to and which ones to say “no” to.
- Be mindful of what service commitments you currently have and what the time commitments are for these current service roles. Evaluate whether your service commitments match with your current position and job description. Then determine if and when there is room for additional service (or if you need to drop something in order to take on a new service task). For example, as my service obligation on the university promotion and tenure committee was ending, I agreed to serve on the evaluation of chairs and directors committee.
- Set time limits/amounts for the service you are willing to provide. For example, outside of my editorial role, I will only peer review 1-2 additional manuscripts per month.
- Attempt to balance out your service across various levels, knowing that you need to give service to your department, institution, and field of study. Assess the level of the service you are being asked to add and evaluate if this is in balance with current service commitments. For example, I will serve on no more than two university level committees in an academic year, and I limit my service to the field by only holding one office/elected position at a time to make sure I can provide service to my department.
- When asked to take on a new service role, ask yourself some questions to determine if it is the right role for you, including:
- Is it something you want to do?
- Would this role be engaging?
- Would this role help you or your students in some way?
- Is it something that more junior colleagues could do?
- Is there a particular reason that you are the right person for this role?
- What are the potential consequences for not taking on this service role?
If the service role is not the right fit at this point in time, then politely say “no.” If at all possible, suggest other individuals that could be considered for this role. This can make saying “no” a little easier and less guilt inducing. Note, however, that I attempt to reach out to the other person whenever possible, prior to suggesting them for the service, to determine if this is something they would be interested in.
It is important to remind ourselves that while service work can be taxing, the work can be fulfilling and engaging. It is a terrific way to get to work with colleagues and get to meet new people. You are also impacting and helping shape the future of your institution and the field. So be selective and choose the right service roles for you.