Awareness of the unseen contract can be a game changer!
AUTHOR Ibrahim Albuainain - NOVEMBER 2024
Have you ever felt like you're doing far more than what your job description states? Or maybe you've seen a colleague who got caught in the same cycle? People sign contracts with clearly defined roles and expectations, only to find themselves overwhelmed with tasks that go far beyond what was initially agreed upon.
This disconnect often arises when these expectations aren’t consistently reinforced, leading to what I like to call "the invisible job contract." In this post, I’ll highlight three main reasons why employees often end up in this complex situation, and how to prevent it or at least control it.
ILLUSTRATION BY Ibrahim Albuainain. Job contracts have limits. Don't try to exceed them to impress.
1. Every Job Contract Has A Scope. Find Yours
One of the most common mistakes employees make is failing to establish clear boundaries from the start. Many begin their jobs with enthusiasm, ready to tackle tasks, but without explicitly defining what their limits are. As a result, their workload gradually expands to include tasks that aren't aligned with their core responsibilities. This can lead to confusion about their role, disrupt career progression, and contribute to burnout.
That's why it's critical that employees take the time during the onboarding process (if there is any) to discuss not just their responsibilities but also where those responsibilities should end. Employees should have regular conversations about their tasks and performance and it’s critical to periodically revisit these discussions with their managers to ensure that their job role remains within the scope of the original agreement.
Without setting and maintaining these boundaries, employees can easily find themselves trapped in an ever-expanding role that leaves little room for growth or personal balance and often is outside the scope of their job description.
ILLUSTRATION BY Ibrahim Albuainain. To avoid overwhelming yourself, raise any concern as early as possible.
2. Hesitation Will Cause Workload Inflation
Another reason employees fall into the trap of the invisible contract is the feeling of guilt or hesitation when communicating their needs and expectations. Many workers are shy from speaking up when they feel overwhelmed, fearing they’ll be seen as uncooperative or incapable.
This hesitancy can result in taking on tasks that are outside of their original job scope—tasks that go unchallenged simply because they don’t push back. It’s ok to help and support one another, but it shouldn’t be the norm.
It’s essential to flag a task which falls outside of your contracted duties. Employees should feel empowered to ask for clarification when necessary and negotiate their workload, especially when it begins to tip the scale toward imbalance. It is not about being confrontational; it’s about ensuring a mutual understanding between you and your employer about your capacity and what is reasonable within the parameters of your role.
In some cultures, the aspect of questioning a manager is not a common practice so make sure you understand how to communicate and express your views. This kind of open communication not only prevents burnout but also fosters a healthier working relationship built on respect and understanding.
ILLUSTRATION BY Ibrahim Albuainain. Just be yourself.
3. Accepting The Unspoken Workplace Norms
Many workplaces come with a set of unwritten rules—working long hours, answering emails after official hours, or trying to be always available. These norms can easily become the foundation for an invisible contract that employees unknowingly accept. Without realizing it, employees start to internalize these expectations, leading them to feel obligated to perform duties outside their formal job scope.
The key to avoid this pitfall is through establishing clear and healthy boundaries early on. This might involve candid conversations with managers or colleagues, where you make it clear that certain norms, like working outside agreed hours, aren’t acceptable for you.
Saying "no" can feel daunting, but it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and ensuring you don’t become overwhelmed by responsibilities you never agreed to take on. If others are just acting focused, there is no need for you to do the same as long as you’re getting the work done.
Conclusion
The invisible job contract is a silent but real phenomenon that affects countless employees across various industries. Try to set limits from the beginning or if you’ve already adapted, try to slowly adjust and improve your situation. Remember, your work should align with the job you signed up for, and maintaining that alignment is key to long-term success and satisfaction in your career. No job in the world is worth sacrificing your time and health.
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