NEW YORK — Nikelle Inman was eager to begin her new role as a coach for first-generation college students. She envisioned one-on-one meetings where she could help these students tackle challenges and find resources necessary for their success. However, things didn’t go as planned. Instead of engaging with students, she and her fellow coaches spent their first year buried in paperwork, primarily focused on reviewing admissions applications. This left her feeling alienated and unrecognized in her role.
“When the admissions work overshadowed our original mission, it really made me feel disconnected,” Inman shared. This sentiment isn’t isolated; many U.S. workers have reported a lack of connection to their organization’s goals and uncertainty about meeting job expectations, especially since the pandemic reshaped our work lives, according to a new analysis by Gallup.
The Gallup survey, which included a diverse mix of employees, found that less than half “strongly agreed” they knew what was expected of them at work, a significant drop from 56% in January 2020. Newer and younger employees, along with those in fields like technology and finance who are working remotely or in hybrid settings, are particularly struggling with unclear job expectations.
This trend is understandable. The chaos brought on by COVID-19 created a tumultuous work environment where managers and employees alike have had to adapt continually. In late 2024, reports showed that about one-quarter of employees were working exclusively from home, a significant rise from just 10% in 2019. Meanwhile, tech industry layoffs have further strained workers, often leading to increased workloads without adjustments to expectations.
“After multiple rounds of layoffs, the survivors often find their responsibilities are constantly shifting, which can be overwhelming,” said Jeremy Guttenplan, an executive coach.
To address these challenges and minimize confusion regarding job roles, here are several strategies that could help employees regain a sense of clarity and purpose:
1. Establish Clear Expectations Early
It’s essential to clearly define what is expected in any new role or project from the outset. Shared documentation outlining deadlines and performance markers can prevent misunderstandings later on.
For instance, when Amber Krasinski, a real estate developer, was asked to produce 85 TikTok videos in just three hours, she recognized it was an unrealistic demand and declined the offer. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations with clients upfront.
2. Seek Regular Feedback
Frequent check-ins with supervisors can help employees who are unsure of their priorities or responsibilities. While no one wants to sit through endless meetings, open lines of communication can foster a better understanding of workplace expectations.
For example, Brian Smith, founder of IA Business Advisors, shares that his company hosts weekly gratitude sessions, where employees can receive guidance on work-related challenges and share their appreciation for their teammates, enhancing workplace morale.
3. Initiate Conversations About Roles
Employees should not wait idly for supervisors to provide feedback. Initiating a dialogue about expectations can often clear up misunderstandings.
Dale Whelehan, founder of 4 Day World, suggests employees take the initiative to confirm their understanding of projects with their managers. They can summarize what they believe their role entails and ask for confirmation, which can foster better communication going forward.
4. Trust Your Intuition
With constant changes in the workplace, it’s easy to feel scattered and unsure. If the workload feels excessive or chaotic, take a moment to evaluate your priorities and focus on what truly matters.
“If something doesn’t feel right, don’t just accept it,” Inman advises. Employing a proactive mindset can lead to better outcomes, whether that means making improvements in your current position or considering new opportunities.
These strategies can help restore clarity and improve engagement, creating a more cohesive workplace atmosphere for employees navigating an evolving landscape.
