Many years ago, in this particular large organisation, I was hired for my experience and what stood out for my manager was my candor and sense of humour (I know rite!?). It should raise alarm bells for me. The workplace MUST be boring if they need “funny” people like me!
I lasted 8 months there – let me explain.
The person that hired me was the head of program. My manager gave me the trust and freedom to help shape the program delivery framework (this was where my experience help me get the job). My manager, continued employing other roles that would help with the program.
I planned, consulted and informed the appropriate people in the business & program on the delivery framework. I received multiple positive feedback on my working styles & outcomes. So, these validated my way of working as a success.
Throughout this process, there were mindsets, processes and conditions that became impediments to achieving the program goals. As I believe in honesty, I informed my manager of these impediments and the recommended way forward (Yes! We should ALWAYS have recommendations when we raise issues/risks!). I was listened to, but nothing happened. I raised the same issues three times (as 3 is the magic number) and nothing…
I was rather disappointed. I can see no progress from here, so I left for another opportunity.
Lesson learned?
The work itself: I did not learn anything new as I was implementing the same thing I did in previous organisations (with tweaks to suit this one of course). I did learn a new industry & the organisational culture.
Team: I learnt to be a teacher – a coach to my team on lean / agile way of working as none of them had any experience in this. They are keen learners – lucky for me, made teaching easier. I also learnt that everyone learns & understand things at different rates. Thus, I learnt to build patience (one of most important life lesson).
My leader: My manager, who was my leader at the time, did not offer / mentor / coach me to influence the key players needed at the time or manage the situation better. Though a lovely & kind person, I did not learn from my manager. I was unable to progress – I did not get any support.