Have you requested extra responsibilities in any of your previous roles?

"Most of the time, yes. I don't like to get "bored" or have an empty to-do list. Working hard makes the time go by faster. I don't ask for more work when I have a full load and am staring at overtime possibilities, though."

"Most of the time, yes. I don't like to get "

"Yes, I will request extra responsibilities when it's appropriate. I will on occasion ask 'what more can I do?' or 'what's next?' I like going above and beyond, and I always have my eye on the end game prize. I know that often the way to get there, faster, is to request the extra responsibilities and demonstrate my want for it."

"I often seek out more responsibility, either in mentorship or curriculum writing, for example. Even if it's nothing specific or mandated, I take on these responsibilities willingly. I want to help better the department and myself. Also, I am the freshman girl's soccer coach at the district's high school."

"I like to take it on myself to figure out the fastest way to get something done while maintaining my high standards. Then, I continue to innovate on that. I like being efficient and effective. The most recent addition to my responsibilities includes planning all promotions for the annual calendar and coordinating with sales on how they will pitch and execute those promotions."

"To be an excellent manager and leader, I need to show that not only am I proactive, but that being so will positively impact career growth. I need to lead by example, so I am always looking for more projects or responsibilities."

The interviewer wants to see that you have a desire to learn, grow, and try on new challenges! No hiring authority wants to hire the complacent employee so show them you are willing to see opportunity when it arises!

Your willingness to take on additional tasks, with a positive attitude, gives the interviewer all the more reason to want to get to know you better. Hiring managers are looking for people who will be proactive and help to carry the team.

Here are some ways you can gain extra responsibilities in the workplace:

- Talking to your boss about your career goals and having a conversation about new tasks that may help to get you there
- Offering to take work off of a colleague's plate, if they seem stressed.
- Studying hard to become an SME (Subject Matter Expert) in software or topic that your boss would find useful
- Just jumping in and take on a new responsibility!

"In my current role I asked my boss if I could take over the social media marketing. We are a small company, and my supervisor was struggling with it. Being a millennial, I am always on social media, and I understand what types of posts gain attention. After taking over the task, I grew our Instagram following from just 400 to 2000 in 2 months! I am always game for taking on new tasks, especially when they are in my wheelhouse."

Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.