Usually, we define six types of job crafting. Because you know your job the best, it is up to you to decide for each task which type of crafting is the best option. Below you’ll find an overview of each type of crafting, with some examples to inspire you!
Task crafting: this involves activities to change the job or task itself, usually by adding or delegating different aspects of the task. You might drop a task that isn’t energizing or ask a colleague to swap (parts of) a task. You can also dedicate less or more time for a task, so the impact on your job will change. Adding a task might also be a possibility. A chef, for example, may not only serve food but can create a beautifully designed plate. You can decide to take an extra role as a mentor or try to facilitate a meeting.
Process crafting (also called chrono crafting): this involves changing the timing of different tasks. As your energy levels are not the same every day and during a day, it may be worthwhile to reschedule some tasks to a moment where you usually have a lot of energy (e.g. in the morning) and do a task which gives you a lot of energy on a moment where you usually have less energy (e.g. after lunch).
Time crafting: is a way to counteract the negative consequences of experiencing a misfit between your chronotype and organizational and social requirements. Job crafting or modeling your job includes managing your time and agenda. Based on your circadian rhythm, you can decide when you start or stop working when you want to take a break, etc.
Relationship crafting: this involves changing the interactions you have at work. You might, for example, feel very inspired when you talk to a particular colleague. So, you can ask him/her to help you with a project. Also, if you have a not-so-energizing task that you have to do by yourself, you can do this together with a colleague. Doing so, you add a relational aspect of the job, which might make it more joyful. Sometimes the presence of a person costs energy. Rather than avoiding this person, you can try to understand why you feel that way and try to talk about it with this person, solving this issue for you.
Cognitive crafting:this involves changing your mindset. By changing perspectives on what you are doing, you can create more meaning. Especially for tasks with lots of burdens, which cannot be task crafted, cognitive crafting is useful. Ask your colleagues, supervisor, customer, what it means to them if you do this task. Usually, there is a more profound significance to this task. Making weekly reports, might not be used a lot, but indicate when a crisis is coming. Changing sheets in a hotel is more about making a customer’s journey more comfortable, then about cleaning a room.
Context crafting:this involves changes in your working environment. As other types of crafting are not possible, you can always look at your surroundings and try to change them. This can be very simple by adding a plant or a personal touch to your office. But this can also involve working in a different room or location for where you need to focus.