Wearing many hats: Where does the role of evaluator end?

Elizabeth Grim’s blog post Wearing Many Hats: Where Does the Role of Evaluator End? delves into the diverse roles that evaluators occupy and the challenges in defining professional boundaries.

Drawing from her experience and discussions at the American Evaluation Association conference, Grim explores how evaluators balance roles as analysts, facilitators, educators, and advocates. This piece is relevant for young and emerging evaluators (YEEs), offering insights into the flexibility and varied responsibilities that characterise monitoring and evaluation (M&E) careers.

Key features

Grim discusses the multiple "hats" evaluators wear across different project stages and contexts. Evaluators can take on roles such as project manager, educator, data analyst, and strategist. She reflects on how these roles may intersect, compete, or complement each other, challenging the notion of a singular evaluator identity. Highlighting open communication as essential, Grim emphasises transparency with stakeholders about evaluative roles and boundaries, especially as evaluation intersects with policy change, advocacy, and program development.

How would you use the resource?

YEEs can use this article to reflect on the breadth of roles available in evaluation and the need for clear communication about role boundaries. This reflection helps YEEs navigate and define their own professional identities while understanding the flexible nature of evaluation work and the importance of transparency with clients and stakeholders.

Why recommend it?

Grim’s reflections provide YEEs with a realistic view of the M&E profession’s complexity, showcasing how evaluators adapt their roles to meet diverse project needs. It underscores the adaptability required to succeed in M&E and encourages reflection on personal values and boundaries within professional practice.