In academia, as in much of the rest of the work world, you’re judged by the commitments that you keep. While in the early years of a science career in academia, this may come as something of a surprise–there is no doubt that in teaching, collaborations, grant writing–anything where you are working as part of a team, or representing a team (or faculty)–it is absolutely crucial to follow through on the work-related promises that you make.
Occasionally, however external events intervene and it becomes impossible to do whatever it is you told others you would do. Perhaps a family illness, or maybe a fantastic job opportunity in Singapore. I wish I could write otherwise, but it’s simply a fact that even under those circumstances one has to be prepared to accept the professional accountability that comes with a life in academic science–and that accountability can be harsh indeed.
And often invisible.
That’s why it’s so incredibly important to not promise more than you are certain you can do–even if you wish to be collegial, friendly etc. My sense is that it’s better to say no, if you’re not entirely certain you can fulfill the commitment.
Jim
Discoverers and Discoveries 