PMO | How to Avoid Overcommitment

Overcommitment could happen when trying too hard to meet the customer's expectations. Let's discuss how you can recognize that you have overcommitted yourself or for your company and  how to resolve the issue. 

Sincerity is the Key. First, admit that overcommitment is a bad thing and should not happen in the first place. However, when some aspects of work are overlooked and result in overcommitments, you would honestly admit the mistake and reduce the impact on customers and the company. If anything changed effects your early commitments, you also should communicate with customers immediately. Keep the customer "in the know" helps get a better understanding and build trust. 

Tip- DON'T: DON'T try to solve the problems without communicating with the customer. Otherwise, it can make things worse. 

Question: Give an example of a time where you were not able to meet a commitment to a team member. What was the commitment and what prevent you from meeting it. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from it?  Learning to say No and knowing your limit are critical to answer the question. ​