Career Tip: Know Your Role

This may seem like common sense, but it is crucial to know your role when working with other people in an ensemble, an organization, a gig, etc.  There is almost always a hierarchy in a professional setting. Where do you fall in that hierarchy? This is really important, because you don’t want to overstep.

Consider these scenarios: If you are new to an ensemble, or an entry-level employee at an organization, or perhaps playing a gig in your new city, your role is likely different than a more senior person.  So given that role, you want to proceed with some caution, not being too vocal with criticisms and ideas, unless you are asked for those thoughts.  As you become one of those more senior members of the ensemble, or organization, or gig community, then your role changes and you can act accordingly.

We have all probably seen scenarios where someone is not acting or speaking in a way that is consistent with their role, and honestly this reflects poorly on that person. You don’t want to be that person, so take some time to think about and know your role in professional settings.