Here's how you can discuss taking on new responsibilities or projects with your boss.

In my current role, not withstanding the pressure to deliver the required outcomes and the heightened frighted feeling associated with approaching my line manager, I cohesively relayed my past experience on similar projects and the responsibilities associated with same. I highlighted past experiences and challenges and how I overcome same, coupled with a background of these. With my various skills in requirement gathering, analysis skills furthered by my innovative approach to tackling challenges on any project, I successfully managed to be appointed a project lead member on the implementation of an enterprise resource planning platform (ERP).

Schedule a meeting with your manager and treat it like a job interview. Remind the manager of your relevant accomplishments and demonstrate your understanding of the new project, its needs, and how you are the best person for the project. Bonus if you first ask the manager if he/she/they think you're doing a good job. If not, convince him/her/them otherwise.

Before you approach your boss, thoroughly prepare. Research the responsibilities or projects you're interested in taking on. Understand how they fit within the company's goals and how your background in computer science equips you to tackle them. It's important to consider the technical aspects and how they align with your skill set, whether it's software development, data analysis, or system architecture. This preparation shows your boss that you're serious and have thought about how you can contribute to the company's success.

Put into perspective what are your strengths and what is the value you will be adding to this project. Be ready to prepare a 5-minute pitch with that information.

Choosing the right moment to discuss new responsibilities is crucial. Look for a time when your boss is not overwhelmed with deadlines or major projects. Consider scheduling a meeting specifically for this discussion, rather than bringing it up spontaneously. This gives both of you the opportunity to prepare and ensures that the conversation will be given the attention it deserves. In computer science, where project timelines can be critical, respecting your boss's time can play a significant role in how your proposal is received.

This is critical. But finding the right time is not only related to finding exactly the right moment to talk, this should be thinking strategically. Find the right momentum to do it. When that project that you want to be part on is starting/kick in off and be sure that you align with the people that is already part of that project. Then go a give your pitch.

For me value is related with your strengths and previous experience that you are adding to this project. What are you best at and what do you expect to learn form this project for your path inside the company.

Come to the meeting with a clear plan outlining how you will manage the new responsibilities alongside your current workload. In computer science, this might involve discussing how you will allocate time for coding, testing, and meetings without neglecting your existing duties. Show that you've considered the practicalities and are ready to take on the challenge without disrupting the flow of work. Your boss will appreciate seeing that you've thought through the logistics.

This should be a big part of the conversation. It is good to propose yourself for new responsibilities but it is good as well to let your boss know how you will manage your current ones or to delegate some stuff. And never leave work unfinished because that will set a precedent for your type of delivery.

Be prepared to address any concerns your boss may have. They may question your ability to handle additional work or whether it's the right time for you to take on more. Listen carefully and respond with understanding. In computer science, it's important to acknowledge the complexity of projects and assure your boss that you're equipped to handle them with your technical skills and problem-solving abilities. Reassure them that you're committed to continuous learning and growth

After your discussion, follow up with a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and consideration. If they need time to think about your proposal, respect that and offer to provide any additional information they might need. In computer science, where documentation is key, you might also offer to draft a more detailed plan or timeline for taking on the new responsibilities. Following up demonstrates your professionalism and keeps the conversation open