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The information technology field’s demanding pace can make it seem easy and imperative to be a certified doormat for coworkers in your IT jobs.  Taking on extra work really makes you stand out to IT recruiters and IT managers as model IT contractors, right?  Actually, that’s not really true.

The best IT consultants are able to do their workload well, contribute to the success of their teams, and do so with a smile and good energy.  Over time, becoming the office doormat starts to wear on anyone, no matter how originally cheerful they may be.  While nobody should balk at the notion of meeting or exceeding expectations at their jobs, taking on too much work will only make you the office sourpuss in the end.  And nobody promotes the office sourpuss, no matter how competent of IT professionals they are.

So if you’ve identified yourself as the office doormat, how do you break the cycle of too much work?  It’s as easy as taking the time to think about things.  Try making a list of your big picture priorities and your daily tasks.  Whenever somebody asks you to add new projects, evaluate how these fit into your lists.  When things really don’t fit into these lists, then try to push back.  Note why these things are not relevant for your goals and job description and use the right tone depending on whom you’re speaking to (boss, coworker, etc).  Soon enough, you’ll start seeing your plate become a little less full and your attitude and demeanor at work become a whole lot better!