…honesty and learning from others…
It sounds a bit dramatic but engaging with other professionals in productive rich discussions about the joys, sorrows and the challenges of work can open windows to yourself, (i.e. better understanding your assets and liabilities as well as doors to potential matches with other organizations.)
You lead with questions and issues of importance to the person who agreed to meet with you. You’re the guest, remember. They will know you’re sincere and aren’t just there for a “job grab.”
As the relationship develops, there will be opportunities for you to talk about your accomplishments and goals. Don’t overdo this. This is a professional discussion—not a sales pitch. Be humble, honest and real.
“You know, in hindsight, our team should have focused more on the
customer’s primary need, improved HR accountability–the reason we
were awarded the contract. We allowed personnel issues to
bog us down–they were annoying but not outcome threatening to our results.”
Discerning the future is complex, mushy work, Herminia Ibarra, author of, Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career. I’m struck by a poignant quote, encouraging us to “get out there” as there’s much to gain.
“We learn who we have been and who we might become, in practice, not in theory,
by testing fantasy and reality, through exploration, experimentation & examination.”
It begins with a simple conversation—and asking a great question.
TODAY…
Ponder how you can make testing fantasy and reality through exploration can become your goal. Who do you want to meet with?
Thomas Bachhuber, Ed.D.
President of the Board and Executive Director for The Center for Life Transitions. Tom is responsible for overall Center leadership and strategy. His individual coaching/counseling as well as workshops and retreats focus on integrating leading career development ideas with spiritual exploration. Read more.