Why Being ‘Everyone’s Go-To’ Can Stall Your Career, According to Maryann (MJ) Jamieson

In a recent LinkedIn post, Maryann (MJ) Jamieson offers a stark perspective on the common workplace inclination to be the helpful, reliable colleague, arguing that this helpfulness, when unbounded, can inadvertently hinder career progression. Jamieson contends that while being seen as useful is positive, it doesn’t equate to being perceived as ready for promotion.

The core of Jamieson’s argument is that consistently being the person everyone turns to for assistance—whether for routine tasks, problem-solving, or simply when others are unsure—can lead to being pigeonholed. This can create a reputation for being a reliable executor rather than a strategic thinker or a leader.

“You think you’re building equity. You’re building a reputation for being useful. Not for being ready.”

The Perils of Unbounded Helpfulness

Jamieson elaborates on the hidden costs of being overly available. One significant drawback, according to the post, is the shift in perception from visionary to executor. While feedback like “So easy to work with” or “Always steps up” might seem positive, Jamieson points out that these phrases don’t typically lead to discussions about leadership potential.

As Maryann (MJ) Jamieson notes, the distinction is critical:

“She always helps” doesn’t sound like “She should lead”

Jamieson highlights that this focus on execution means one’s name might surface for getting tasks done, but not for strategic thinking or forward planning. This can lead to being overlooked for opportunities that require a broader vision.

Calendar Crowding and Stunted Development

Another key point raised by Jamieson is how an overloaded schedule, filled with others’ priorities, can derail personal advancement. The post explains that spending time helping multiple colleagues with small tasks means less time is available for high-impact, strategic work that could position an individual for promotion.

Furthermore, Jamieson argues that this constant availability can inadvertently hinder the development of others. By always being the one to step in and solve problems, individuals may prevent colleagues from learning and growing independently. This creates a dynamic where others become dependent, rather than viewing the helpful person as a true peer or mentor.

“You train others to depend on you instead of develop themselves”

According to Maryann (MJ) Jamieson, this pattern can lead to becoming a crutch rather than a collaborative colleague, which does not demonstrate leadership capacity.

Signaling Availability and Ambition

Jamieson also touches upon the subtle signals sent by constant availability. The post suggests that an open calendar and a willingness to jump on any request can signal that an individual is not stretched or overburdened, which, counterintuitively, can be perceived negatively by those looking for leaders. People who are seen as climbing the ladder often make bolder moves and ask fewer questions, demonstrating a proactive approach.

In Maryann (MJ) Jamieson’s view:

“Your availability signals you’re not stretched. Helpfulness without boundaries reads as low ambition.”

Jamieson reframes the act of saying “no” not as a sign of laziness or selfishness, but as a strategic choice. Professionals who are advancing, she argues, are not saying yes to everyone, but rather to the opportunities and tasks that align with their growth and future goals. The focus shifts from being a general helper to tackling the “right problems” and engaging in work that strategically positions them for the next career step.

Ultimately, Jamieson concludes that while being helpful is not inherently problematic, being “everyone’s go-to person” comes at a significant career cost.