EPISODE 43 (50) ASSIGNMENT ADDICT - rarely if ever refuse an assignment

Andrew introduces this tricky situation you may face at work-to accept or refuse a new assignment. While you could be the exception, most people find it almost impossible to refuse a work assignment from a senior person. Yet those responsible for handing out assignments know that a potential recipient may refuse for various reasons.  Andrew suggests your first step is to analyse the possible new assignment in this way: 

• What are the opportunities or threats of this new assignment? 
• What benefits will its completion give the organisation? - viewing the assignment in this broader way can help clarify its importance or urgency. 
• What benefits will you get from it-this may sound selfish, but if you don't look out for your interests, who will?

Will the new assignment provide you with tangible benefits? It may, for example, even distract you from your core work, on which you will ultimately be judged.  Accepting a new assignment may be worth it if it 

• Showcases your talent or ability to contribute 
• Strengthens relationships with your team
• Offers a learning opportunity
• Presents you as a can-do person
• Provides valuable new contacts 
• Unleashes your underused creativity
• Does not undermine your core work on which you will be judged

Hopefully, these wins will emerge when you analyse the assignment. Later in the Podcast, Andrew reviews when, why and how you might refuse an assignment. All 50 Ways podcasts end with three actions you can take today to do better. You'll also learn how to obtain the relevant e-learning mobile unit to consolidate your learning further. COMING SOON!

• Feedback friendly Dealing well with negative feedback. 
• Pay rise—how to get one, and will it make you a success?
• Trash Talker: Bad mouthing may boomerang and leave a nasty taste.

Can't wait for Series 2 to run its course? Then buy Andrew's new book, published on Amazon, and there's also an Audio version. Further reading and videos: Andrew recommends some useful follow-through material which you can find for each episode at

www.myhappinessatwork.com/reading/categories/research-reading

and

www.myhappinessatwork.com/watch. BOOK: The 50 Ways to Succeed at Work book is a standalone companion to Andrew Leigh's weekly podcasts. It's an essential resource for all job starters and those at work for a few years. Dip in and out and take what seems helpful.

www.myhappinessatwork.com/book