This Isn't the Job You Were Hired For

Getting past the learning curve at work is a personal victory, so it's normal to feel lost when your job duties suddenly change. An unexplained shift in your role can be confusing or frustrating, making you panicked that your performance is under scrutiny. Instead of freaking out, remember that your job isn't your identity. Think about the pros and cons to figure out whether your new job duties are an opportunity in disguise.

Compare Your Roles

After competing to land a job, a drastic role change feels like a bait and switch. For many people, the first instinct is to be upset that an employer doesn't value the skills they were hired to use. However, HR staff aren't always sure what a job entails when they create a description, especially if the position didn't exist before. In these situations, new job duties take shape once hiring managers have a better understanding of the problems they need to solve.

Don't assume the company misled you or you did something wrong. Take an objective look at your new job duties, and make a comparison list of both roles. Are the new responsibilities an extension of what you were already doing? Do they align with your skill set and career goals? Do they prepare you for a higher role? If your new responsibilities clash with your personality or expertise, consider talking to your manager about the unexpected changes. But if your bosses refuse to hear you out, start searching for another job elsewhere.

Negotiate for Better Compensation

Having your workload doubled is common when employees leave and aren't replaced. Employers can get away with changing your job duties if you don't have ironclad legal protection, such as a union contract. On the other hand, many bosses are reluctant to lose good employees who handle many jobs, which gives you a strong bargaining position. Approach your boss in a calm, neutral manner to discuss how your role has changed. Back up your claims with facts, including your original job description and market salary ranges for the work you're currently doing.

When employers can't afford to offer a raise, consider negotiating for perks, such as telecommuting days or more vacation time. With or without more compensation, you should still request a more prestigious title. This allows you to go after higher-paying jobs if you leave the company.

Recognize Growth Opportunities

As businesses explore new markets and expand their offerings, they often need employees who can step into emerging roles. Taking the lead on innovative projects can turn you into a thought leader on the ground floor of new industries. Consider the rapid rise of content marketers, bloggers and YouTube celebrities in today's fast-changing technological environment. If your employer changed your job duties to let you spearhead something new, take advantage of the free training and exploration. You can always take a step back if you don't enjoy the job, but don't overlook a great career move simply because you're afraid of being unqualified.

Learning curves are scary at first, but adaptability is important for professionals who want to stay competitive at work. Give yourself time to adjust to new job duties, and think about how you can make the situation work for you before deciding to move on.

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