Fire Yourself...and Start Again!
Ryan Smith
Human Resources | People Operations | CHRO | Executive Development | Organization Design | Culture | Talent Developer | x-GE, x-Intel
I recently turned a 2-year corner in my role leading HR for GE Business Innovations. Having grown tremendously during this time, I'm moving into a new phase and reflecting on the journey forward. Here are some of the questions I’ve been asking myself:.
What new areas can I drive bold impact for the company and our HR function?
How do I bring in a fresh perspective for my customers and team?
In what ways can I re-create the original level of intensity and curiosity from day one?
When we look at our jobs – especially those we’ve held for a while - seeing how we can impact custumers and colleagues through new eyes can be a challenge. We all develop habits, beliefs and relationships that can prevent us from seeing the whole picture.
My solution is simple: Fire yourself...and start again!
Yes. It’s a bit dramatic, but it’s also a great way to shift your thinking and approach, even if it's simply hypothetical. Here are 5 great ways to do it:
- Review your original 90-day action plan: What would you do again? What points did you miss the first time around? What new focus areas should be added?
- Seek input from peers: I called two of my most trusted peers who are starting a new role. I asked them what they would they do if they were in my shoes? How would they use this role to make the company even better?
- Revisit feedback: Go back through feedback from your manager, friends & teams. Be honest with yourself. Leverage your strengths and passionately go after your development areas.
- Talk to your mentors: Be vulnerable and open about “being fired." Share your strengths and development needs. Ask them what you may have missed so far and what they would do when starting again.
- Get uncomfortable all over again: We tend to lean into areas we know, particularly when we are in a role for a while. Tackle the first task that makes you feel sick at your stomach! These are usually the right ones for the organization and allow us to grow the most.
Let me know if you've faced similar challenges and share your thoughts and advice. We always learn and develop the most from the advice and experience of others.
Vice President, Southeast Region, Client Relations
6yHi Ryan, I am a new follower. I truly enjoyed your many insights I have read! Simple to digest, accept and move forward in a complicated world.
Strategic Account Executive at Salesforce
7yFrank Stampone
Global Marketing Director | Digital Transformation Expert | Driving Brand Growth & Marketing Innovation in Tech
7yGreat post Ryan, it's a great prescription for bettering yourself professionally. Forcing yourself to learn skills sets and develop a comfort of thriving in ambiguity. Simultaneously potentially bettering a business with fresh perspective.
Business Development at Systel (International - all markets, and US Army Programs)
7yTerrific, Ryan...I needed the reminder!
Great suggestions. I think the two year mark is a great place to do this sort of reflection, you are right at the point of becoming comfortable and feeling ownership of practices and processes. This is the right time to look at the role and to look at yourself with a fresh set of eyes.