Strategic Serendipity

Tip of the week: multitask your professional development.  I recently found the Center for Creative Leadership 's podcasts on iTunes U.  If you prefer, you can get there on the computer via the link above.  What I love about loading them on my iPod though is the ability to use my commute time for professional development.  The podcasts are relatively short pieces that can be crammed into even the shortest commute.  Wondering where to start?  I recommend "How to Grow as a Leader," a great piece on developmental assignments.

Penn State's Academic Advising Journal defines mentor as "a wise and trusted counselor or teacher." It is rooted in Greek mythology, Mentor was Odysseus's trusted counselor, under whose disguise Athena became the guardian and teacher of Telemachus. Today, when we think of mentors we think of one of two things: (1) a person who has added quality to your life through sheer good will, or (2) a person assigned as a part of an educational or work program whose job it is to show you how things are done. I’ll use a shorthand for referring to the two types (1) an “organic” mentor and (2) an “assigned” mentor. If you are very lucky, you may get a two-for-one, but don’t worry if you don’t. Life is full of both types and you can learn from both. I’ll write more about strategies for working with mentors in the future. If you are lucky enough to find a person you want to emulate, ask them to be your mentor, this will be your “organic” mentor. Tell them what you want to learn ...

I am inspired by two friends who, in the last month, have secured new and better work opportunities for themselves. Neither are known for constantly selling themselves to their superiors, but they stepped outside of their comfort zone and asked for something they wanted. I am so excited for and proud of them! So, what is it that you want in 2010? I challenge you to learn from my two friends. Look at what is out there (and what may be coming down the line), determine what aligns with your skills and talents, and go to the source to show them why you are the best person to get the job done. In the meantime, have a happy and prosperous new year!