"During last year's annual audit of volunteer records, my supervisor asked me to compile a list of current active volunteers, including information about which department they assist, when they started, and how many hours they have given to the organization. I provided this report in a timely and accurate manner. I also knew that the communications team was interested in receiving a similar breakdown of volunteer information, but they were interested in more complicated data regarding volunteer demographics and their in-kind value relative to hours served. They hadn't specifically asked me to do this for them, but I had the records pulled already, and it only took me a few more minutes to provide this information, which they were able to use to craft their annual report of the organization's program results and financials."

"Things often get really busy during the holidays as more people want to give of their time and resources to serve their communities. Because of this, my supervisor asked if I would be willing to complete a last-minute project streamlining the application process for families seeking rent and utility assistance. This project was outside my typical sphere of responsibility, but it was definitely within my skillset. I spent a few hours developing a plan for the implementation of the new application process to present to our leadership team. I acknowledged that I would need assistance from a specialized volunteer to help with the digitization of the application because I did not want to sacrifice the quality of my standard duties. I worked with the volunteer coordinator to procure this help, and together we were able to deliver on my supervisor's request."

Stress that while you are always willing to go the extra mile, even take on additional work, you never sacrifice quality in the name of delivering more than was asked of you. Avoid promising more than you can offer.