3rd Day at Workshop: Learned about myself

In this workshop, I have learned a lot about consulting skills. But most importantly, I had chances to learn about myself. Yeah. I confirmed my character - I’m dominant yet sociable. I already mentioned that this workshop reminds me of “Apprentice” in many ways. This morning, we had a surprise. We had worked on a project with team members for the last 2 days and were ready for our client presentation. However, the instructor called one person from each group (there are four groups in this classroom) and switched that person to another group. I was one of four people who were called. So, we had to prepare for last minute group dynamic changes in one hour before the client presentation, which we had worked for 8 hours.

Guess why I was selected? The people who were asked to switch their team were the dominant characters/leaders of the group. Since all of my other team members were quiet and did not want to step up to set the direction, I suggested outlines and where we should go. I guess it was obvious to instructors that I was leading the team.

Instructors were interested in seeing how students would react to the new situation: how students would react to losing their leader and how to adopt a new member. I was able to put my value to the team work right away and the new members were very nice to me. We finished our presentation successfully and the client positively commented on my performance. :D

This workshop was very valuable since it gave me confidence to lead and manage a team and validated that my leadership style works. Quite a few people were surprised to know that I have Ph.D and I’m an entry level consultant. I believe I can prove myself eventually and move up.

Another valuable lesson learned was it takes time to learn processes, skills, and culture. I will work hard on whatever project I will be on although it would be tedious and bored to death. That’s something you have to do along the way. You cannot be a manager right away. You have to build experiences from the lower ends if it’s your first job.

The workshop was also inspiring in many ways. I saw many talented people and wanted to keep up with my skills and knowledge. When I interacted with successful senior managers, I wanted to be like them down the road.

I feel so blessed to have this job, learning opportunities, and work with talented people. I will keep working on my weaknesses and increasing strengths. Sometimes I’m wondering what I’m going to be in 5 years. I didn’t know that I would do what I’m doing now when I came to the States in Fall 2001. It’ll be interesting to find out!