Last updated on Aug 3, 2024

Here's how you can juggle multiple temporary roles in community organizing to propel your career forward.

In community organizing, managing multiple temporary roles is a juggling act that can significantly boost your career. It's about understanding the landscape of community needs and aligning them with your skills and interests. This multifaceted approach allows you to gain a wealth of experience, build a diverse network, and demonstrate your versatility to future employers or collaborators. Whether you're coordinating a local campaign, facilitating workshops, or conducting outreach, each role offers unique challenges and learning opportunities. Embracing this dynamic environment requires adaptability, clear communication, and a strategic mindset. Let's dive into how you can effectively handle various temporary roles and move your career in community organizing forward.

1 Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is your greatest ally when juggling multiple roles in community organizing. It means being open to new opportunities and able to shift gears quickly. You might find yourself planning an event one day and advocating for policy changes the next. To stay effective, prioritize your tasks based on impact and deadlines. Also, consider the ebb and flow of community work; some periods will be busier than others. Use quieter times for planning and skill development, so you're ready when things ramp up.

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2 Set Boundaries

While flexibility is crucial, so is setting clear boundaries to avoid burnout. Understand your limits and communicate them to your team or stakeholders. If you're managing several projects, allocate specific times for each and stick to them as much as possible. This helps maintain focus and ensures you're giving each role the attention it deserves. Remember, saying no to additional tasks can sometimes be more beneficial than overcommitting.

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Kyle Hillman, CAE, CMM

Executive Leader, Lobbyist, Speaker
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I find having a clear goal of where you want to go is essential in managing your time and energy effectively. Whenever a new project or request comes your way, take a moment to evaluate how it aligns with your long-term objectives. Ask yourself whether this task will bring you closer to your goal or if it will divert your focus from what truly matters. By being selective and strategic about the commitments you take on, you ensure that your efforts are consistently moving you in the right direction. This approach not only helps you stay on track but also allows you to make the most impactful use of your time.

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3 Prioritize Tasks

Prioritizing tasks effectively is essential when dealing with multiple temporary roles. Assess the urgency and importance of each task, and tackle them accordingly. Use tools like calendars or task management apps to keep track of deadlines and responsibilities. This not only helps with personal organization but also demonstrates to others that you are reliable and efficient in managing your workload.

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4 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is the cornerstone of successful community organizing, especially when you're involved in various roles. Keep all stakeholders informed about your progress, challenges, and changes in your schedule. Regular updates can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Effective communication also involves active listening to feedback, which can help you adjust your approach and improve your performance.

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Kyle Hillman, CAE, CMM

Executive Leader, Lobbyist, Speaker
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If you're anything like me, you often find yourself juggling multiple projects at once. And if you're like me, nothing is more frustrating than unclear communication that leads to wasted effort on work that doesn't meet the mark. To avoid this, it's crucial to take a few extra minutes to restate and confirm what’s expected before diving in. This small step can save you from the frustration of rework and ensures that your efforts are aligned with what’s truly needed.

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5 Reflect and Learn

Each role you take on is an opportunity to learn and grow. Reflect on your experiences regularly to understand what strategies work well and what areas need improvement. This self-awareness will enhance your skills and make you more effective in future roles. Additionally, seek feedback from peers and mentors to gain external perspectives on your performance.

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6 Network Continuously

Networking is a powerful tool in community organizing. As you move through different roles, build relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including community members, fellow organizers, and local leaders. These connections can lead to new opportunities and collaborations that can further your career. Make sure to maintain these relationships even after a project ends, as they can be invaluable resources throughout your career journey.

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Kyle Hillman, CAE, CMM

Executive Leader, Lobbyist, Speaker
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Networking has always felt transactional and inauthentic to me, which is why I prefer a different approach. Instead of "networking," I focus on genuinely connecting with new people and gradually expanding my circle. The key is to build relationships organically, without the pressure of traditional networking.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can juggle multiple temporary roles in community organizing to propel your career forward.

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1 Embrace Flexibility

2 Set Boundaries

3 Prioritize Tasks

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Reflect and Learn

6 Network Continuously

7 Here’s what else to consider

Community Organizing

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Here's how you can juggle multiple temporary roles in community organizing to propel your career forward.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Embrace Flexibility

2 Set Boundaries

3 Prioritize Tasks

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Reflect and Learn

6 Network Continuously

7 Here’s what else to consider

Community Organizing

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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