Serve on professional committees

I have to accept the committee invitation and send my bio, conflicts and a one-paragraph statement of what I’ll bring. Email the chair Mara Jensen and copy Ellen in governance, attach my CV saved as Consultants_CV_June2026.docx, and ask for preferred meeting times next month. Confirm the return receipt and deadline of Friday June 30 before sending.

Before I reply to the chair, make my bio one clear paragraph for non-specialists, pull three governance roles from my CV to highlight, and flag any wording that sounds defensive about time constraints so it reads as professional and willing. Surface the committee’s stated goals at the top and a single-sentence red flag if a conflict of interest exists.

Mara Jensen asked me to join the steering committee and wants a short statement and CV by June 30. I’m worried I’ll agree and then be unable to attend due to field season in July; Ellen will enforce governance rules. I cannot tell if serving will help my career or only drain my time. What’s the likely consequence of saying yes, and what’s the best immediate reply that leaves options open?

Across the last three years I accepted four committee roles that clashed with planting and harvest, costing me both field data and credibility with lab partners. Help me pick one habit to stop doing and one practical email line to use so I only take committees that actually fit my calendar and career goals.