Are you always ready to take on tasks that others refuse, even when things are already full? If you answered “yes” to the question, most likely you are familiar with the phenomenon in working culture such as offerism.
What is an offerism?
In its basic form, offerism is a constant need to please others and always be the first. You take up work not only when a person turns to you directly for help, but also when this is a general request addressed to a group. Even when the task is not in your competence and does not represent a benefit for you.
Is the kettle empty? You fill it with water and offer staff tea. Expired administrative work that no one wants to take on? You will be happy to take it!
What explains the psychological phenomenon
Offerism is a behavioral trait of a person who has an overwhelming tendency to offer support or services, even if they negatively affect his well-being. Offerism is manifested as a result of self-doubt and a desire to be loved and respected.
Psychologists often attribute offerism to the fear of saying no. The more often you answer “yes” to people's requests, the more often they will turn to you for help. There is a risk of being stuck in a vicious circle. Offering is dangerous, first of all, with its consequences: problems with self-esteem and mental health.
Is offerism effective at work?
In conflict management, offerism is akin to adjustment. We want to meet the needs of other people at the expense of our own. We take into account their requests. We say yes, meaning no. When a person who always expresses consent agrees or says no, people around him are surprised at his behavior.
Some people use offerism as a mechanism for promoting business. They believe that the constant availability and interest in fulfilling any task allows them to look in the eyes of the boss as motivated, decisive and reliable employees. Unfortunately, this behavior can have the opposite effect.
Case Study: Is Offerism Always Bad?
A recent study found that 87% of 2,000 participants take the burden of colleagues in their absence. Of this group, 39% said it enabled them to learn new skills. A third felt more confident after completing the assignment.
40% of the subjects also enjoyed the task if the work they performed belonged to a senior member of the team, because their colleagues entrusted them with a serious assignment.
Psychologists advice
According to psychologists and personal development coaches, it’s better to set boundaries. They actually increase respect for the person. A weak person who always says yes looks unconvincing in the eyes of other people. In most cases, they will simply use human resources.
Be helpful to others, but do not overload yourself. Bonded status rarely leads people to the top of the career ladder.
There is nothing wrong with offering help to colleagues and managers. The main thing is to always remember what is in your responsibilities and never forget that saying “no” is normal.