Here’s a quick Food for Thought for your week -
Remember that real stories of your success (or perhaps your failure) are more effective in sharing your experience and insights than hypotheticals.
This week I shared a story about my decision to ask for a different role when I was working at Southwire. I was happy doing what I was doing (Product Management) and found myself pretty effective; but didn’t find the role truly rewarding and challenging. I’m much more of a front-line salesperson. So I took a chance and asked my bosses, Norman Adkins and Rich Stinson, to give me an opportunity at a completely different role. At first they were surprised at my aspirations; but after some deliberation, they liked the idea and congratulated me on my new role. Whew!
This was a risky move on my part, because, let’s face it, they could have said “no”. And then where would I be? What would I have done? I took the risk because it was a calculated risk. I was prepared for any number of outcomes. I was also prepared to pursue my goals and aspirations.
I shared this story with a friend who is contemplating her next career move. Sharing my story, my real experience, helped her evaluate her options, consider the possible outcomes and make a plan of action.
What stories will you share this week? Whether it’s a story with a mentee, with a mentor or with a friend or colleague. Stories are more effective than hypotheticals.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash