CFN – I have often heard from individuals who have started new jobs that the organization did not provide them with the training they needed to be, or feel, successful in their role. “I was thrown to the wolves” or “it was the sink or swim approach” are common phrases from those who feel unsupported or victimized when they are feeling overwhelmed at work.
If you are one of those people, or if you are about to start a new job at a new organization, or a new role within your existing company, you can take charge of your own learning. The “I’m too busy” excuse, coupled with the belief that management is responsible for your development can sink your career. “It is your responsibility to take the time – make the time – to learn and develop your career in a way that adds value to the company as well as you personally.” The Learning Edge” by Calhoun Wick and Lu Stanton Leon.
The problem is that you often don’t know what you don’t know and you are not sure where to start. But, you do need to start somewhere!
The first step is to look at your own skill set. What are you really good at? What value do you bring to your workplace? What is it that you don’t know? What is frustrating you and why? What do you think you need to learn and why do you need to learn it? That is a critically important question to ask. Before you answer it you must understand what is important to your organization’s success in the next 2-3 years and from that understand what proficiencies you need to be a successful part of the company.
In the next article I will discuss creating S.M.A.R.T. objectives which will provide you with tools to take charge of your own learning and own career. If there is something in particular that you would like to know, send me a note and I will do my best to respond. I’d like to hear your questions and understand your challenges of workplace learning.
Sue McConville and Associates provide individual, team and organizational coaching. Contact us with your questions.
Sue McConville and Associates
P.O. Box 686, Ingleside Ontario K0C1M0
Providing inspiring and meaningful coaching to transform your organization.
Email: sue_mcconville@bell.net
Phone: 613.537.2753
Cellular: 613.360.9538
www.SueMcConvilleandAssociates.ca
