If you’re a full-time faculty member, it’s likely that the demands for your service far exceed your capacity. The specific expectations for service vary based on the type of institution, and the specific faculty position. It’s important to focus on selective service where your strengths can shine in a personal mission aligned goal.
Service does not determine tenure
My research (Hale 2012) and my professional experience as a faculty member and coach tells me that teaching and scholarship are more highly valued in tenure and promotion processes.
Faculty are not likely to be denied tenure or promotion because of insufficient service.
However, some faculty members invest time and energy in service to the detriment of scholarly productivity, which is more likely to lead to denied tenure or promotion applications.
How are faculty to balance the requirement to provide service, and the expectations that teaching and scholarship are the primary areas that are judged in terms of tenure and promotion?
Be Selective with Service
My recommendation is to be selective with service. Of course some service obligations are rotated among faculty members and everyone has their turn with that opportunity. (I’m looking at you search committees, curriculum committees, and reappointment committees.) However, in order to feel energized by your service obligations, you must take charge and seek opportunities that fit your goals and values.
In one of my favorite books, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, Greg McKeown emphasizes making our highest contribution, which is doing the right thing the right way at the right time.
What do I feel deeply inspired by?
What am I particularly talented at?
What meets a significant need in the world?
To apply this to service opportunities, it means seeking out the best – not just good – opportunity for your unique combination of passion, talent, and values. Try to seek opportunities that align with your values, your skills, and the time available.
At my previous institution, I intentionally sought service on the University General Education committee because it was at the nexus of my passion, talent, and values. In my current position, I serve on a college committee to build community and civility within the faculty community.
Service Supports your Career
In addition to proving you’re a good colleague, selecting the right service opportunities can boost your career. When your service is aligned with your mission, you can integrate your scholarship, teaching and service – which can save you time.
When your service allows you to flex your skills and knowledge, you build credibility. Service can help you expand your network for future collaborations.
Say no to non-essential Service
Of course you shouldn’t say no to every service opportunity that comes your way. But in order to make your biggest impact in ways that matter to you (and your institution) you’ll want to be strategic with a yes to service. Sometimes you’ll have to say no.
Reflection
What service opportunities have you sought out based on your unique compilation of passion, talent, and values?
If you haven’t been selective with service before, how can you work toward this goal in the future?
In a perfect world what service would you engage with?
How can you move in that direction?