To those that developed me...

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I know it has been a few months and, for that, I apologize.  The last time I posted was in August, which was about the same time that my role at work changed.  I also had some "personal revelations" about this time well; so, every time I considered writing, I was not in the right place.  Being in the right frame of mind is important when I write.  Now that things are getting back under control, I wanted to send a special thanks to the people that played the biggest role in my development professionally, my former employees.

After so many years of managing people, I no longer have any direct reports.  This was a pretty big adjustment for me.  So, for those who may not know, the things that drive me are fixing things and helping people.  The management role allowed me to do that in ways I could never imagine.  The funny thing though is that when I started out my career, I never aspired to be a people manager.  I continue to receive great accolades from people about my leadership and development of others.  I approached managing people as a great responsibility and can only hope that the care and pride that I saw in my employees came through in my support and encouragement in every situation.

 The only likeness I can imagine to my losing employees is that of a parent that is sending their kids out into the world.  I can only hope that I have provide the foundation for them to continue to grow and develop themselves.  However, it is important that I recognize the things that previous employees have taught me.

Direct reports have taught me how..,
  • to listen
  • to incorporate opposing perspectives
  • to appreciate differences in approach
  • to change/construct messages
  • to highlight the positives
  • to not take life too seriously 
  • to say no
I will never be able to capture everything that employees taught me in a single post.  The one thing that I wanted to highlight was that my previous employees taught me how to be a great manager.  For that, I am truly thankful.

I thank you all for developing me!!!  I wish you all the very merriest holidays!

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