Every workplace has its own rhythm, personalities, unwritten rules and power dynamics. Some employees quietly complete assigned tasks and wait for recognition. Others actively seek opportunities, share ideas, solve problems and build relationships across the organization. In Organizational Freelancer, author Tracey M. Batacan uses a memorable question to help readers evaluate their professional approach: Are you a shark or a minnow?
A workplace “minnow” works hard but remains hesitant to speak up about how they add value to the organization. Minnows often wait for managers to notice their achievements, invite them into important projects or offer them advancement opportunities. Unfortunately, excellent work does not always receive automatic recognition. Remaining silent can cause talented professionals to be overlooked, even when they possess valuable skills and creative ideas.
A workplace “shark,” however, does not wait to be selected. This person takes initiative, volunteers for meaningful assignments, develops solutions and looks for ways to contribute beyond a formal job description. Batacan explains that an organizational freelancer becomes a dependable “go-to” professional someone colleagues approach for expertise, brainstorming, collaboration and timely results.
Being a shark does not mean becoming aggressive, selfish or overly competitive. In fact, the strongest organizational freelancers combine confidence with emotional intelligence. They conduct research, support their colleagues, communicate clearly and enjoy the collaborative process. They know when to speak up, but they also understand the importance of listening.
This distinction matters because modern career growth rarely follows one predictable path. Employees may need to create opportunities rather than wait for them. By working with people outside their immediate teams, professionals can expand their networks, learn new skills, strengthen their résumés and become more visible throughout an organization.
For example, someone with graphic design skills might offer support to another department that needs creative materials. A communications professional might volunteer for a cross-functional project. A technically skilled employee might help colleagues improve a process that has remained unchanged for years. These contributions can introduce professionals to new mentors, leaders, departments and career possibilities.
However, becoming more proactive also requires balance. Organizational freelancers must continue meeting the responsibilities of their primary roles while supporting additional projects. Time management, clear communication, accountability and realistic expectations are essential. Taking initiative should demonstrate reliability, not create unfinished work or missed deadlines.
Batacan also encourages readers to identify their own “go-to shark team.” These are trusted experts who can offer advice, solve problems and collaborate when challenging assignments arise. She recommends active listening, focused idea development, finding one’s professional voice and using an internal sense of control to navigate workplace difficulties.
Ultimately, Organizational Freelancer is not about dominating the workplace. This means that you will need to check your ego at the door. It’s also about refusing to disappear within it. Tracey M. Batacan offers readers a practical, relatable guide to becoming more confident, adaptable, creative and valuable at work.
So, are you waiting for someone to notice what you can do or are you ready to show them? The answer may determine whether you remain a minnow or begin moving through your career like a shark. So remember, it’s time for you to become a shark.
[TB1]I changed the title to make it more engaging and reflect a powerful opening title
