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Episode 45 | Managing Expectations at Work

by Niamh Moynihan on
Communication

Episode Summary


In this episode of The Better Workday podcast, Niamh Moynihan discusses the importance of managing expectations in the workplace. She highlights how unclear expectations can lead to stress and burnout, and provides practical strategies for both employees and managers to ensure that expectations are realistic and aligned.

The conversation covers the different types of expectations, skills for effective management, and the significance of communication in fostering a healthy work environment.

 


00:00 Introduction to Managing Expectations at Work
01:26 What Does Managing Expectations Mean?
02:50 Understanding Expectations in the Workplace
03:58 Strategies for Managing Expectations Effectively
05:53 The Importance of Managing Expectations as a Manager
06:26 How to Manage Expectations This Week
07:23 New Chapter

What You'll Learn in This Episode

What Is Managing Expectations?

Expectations are assumptions about what will happen in the future. When they’re clear and aligned, work runs smoothly. When they’re vague or unrealistic, stress and unnecessary overtime follow.

The Three Types of Expectations at Work
  • Meeting Expectations – Delivering what’s needed—no more, no less.
  • Exceeding Expectations – Great when done selectively but risky if it becomes the norm.
  • Unrealistic Expectations – The burnout zone—pushing past limits without enough time or resources.
4 Skills to Manage Expectations Effectively
  • Understand the Task – Ask clarifying questions about deadlines, priorities, and available resources.
  • Assess Your Workload – Be realistic about your capacity before taking on more work.
  • Decide on the Level of Effort – Not everything needs a level 10 effort—choose wisely.
  • Communicate Regularly – Keep colleagues, managers, and clients updated to avoid surprises.

Bonus Tip: Leave space for the unexpected. Don’t over-plan your time—things will come up.

Managing Expectations With Yourself
  • Consider your energy levels, attention, and personal commitments before saying "yes" to more work.
  • Balance is key to avoiding burnout and staying productive.
Managing Expectations With Others
  • Get alignment upfront – Before starting a task, clarify what success looks like.
  • Ask clarifying questions – What’s the deadline? What are the key deliverables?
  • Refer to Episode 41 for strategies on how to say no at work.
If You’re a Manager…
  • 1 in 3 employees say their manager isn’t clear on expectations.
  • Check in with your team—do they truly understand what’s expected of them?
  • Are you aligned with leadership, peers, and other departments?

Try This at Work This Week

Before taking on a new task, ask more questions.

  • What’s the deadline?
  • What are the key priorities?
  • What’s the main focus?

Then, summarise what you heard and confirm it to avoid misalignment later.

Related Links and Resources:

Blog on Managing Expectations at Work

Episode 41 - How to Say No at Work

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend or colleague. Until next time, stay well and have a better workday!

 

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