Role mismatch dilemma: When job applied for differ from assigned roles
You are Hired Illustration.
For many graduates, landing a first job is a major milestone, an opportunity to put years of education into practice and begin building a career.
For James Njoroge, that opportunity came with the expectation that he would work in Information Communication Technology. However, shortly after joining the company, his role took an unexpected turn.
Njoroge was employed for an IT assistant position but found himself increasingly assigned front desk support duties. While supporting other functions may sometimes be part of workplace flexibility, the change became a concern for him because it moved him away from the role he had been hired to perform and the career path he had envisioned.
He raised the issue with the company, hoping to have his responsibilities clarified or his original role restored. However, despite bringing the matter to the employer’s attention, the situation did not change. Faced with a growing disconnect between his job and his professional goals, Njoroge eventually made the difficult decision to leave the company.
His experience highlights a dilemma that many young professionals can face: whether to adapt when an employer changes their responsibilities or stand firm when the new duties begin taking them away from their intended career path.
Career coach Roy Ndombi advises employees not to panic when their job scope changes, but to first assess whether the change is temporary, an expansion of responsibilities or a completely different direction. He also recommends documenting the original job description and keeping records of when and how the responsibilities changed.
Ndombi further encourages employees to have a professional conversation with their managers to seek clarity on expectations and whether the changes are temporary or permanent. Where responsibilities increase or significantly change, employees can negotiate issues such as salary, job title, training and workload.
“Change in responsibilities is not necessarily a bad thing. It can sometimes signal trust from management, provide an opportunity to acquire new skills or even become a pathway to career growth. Understanding your career path and company culture is key since it will enable employees to distinguish between being given an opportunity to grow and being exploited without recognition,” Ndombi advises
Ndombi’s golden rule is simple, if a change helps you grow, negotiate fair terms and embrace it and if it misuses your skills, document the situation, raise your concerns formally and plan your next move.
