Superabsorbant New Director

Week One of my new work challenge is complete. On the first day, I rode up the escalator from the Metro (Washington’s subway system) and was in the middle of the city. I’ve lived in the metropolitan area since 1997 – mostly in the ‘burbs, but have never really worked downtown. Let’s just say that I felt a certain energy, a juice from the environment. Yes, DC is a go-go kind of town, but the all activity is really kind of fascinating to be a part of. Well, at least for now in my wide-eyed wonder. I’m hoping that I can hold on to a portion of this fresh curiosity as the natural routine sets in over time.

Not surprisingly, there’s been so much to learn and grasp over the past week. Perhaps it’s my experience finally kicking in; rather than anxiously thinking, “Yipes, there’s so much to learn so quickly,” I seem to be easily thinking, “Yep, there’s plenty to learn and it will all come in time. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” Could also be my curiosity and sponge-like zest for learning.

I also better understand how I learn new things. For me, my preference is to get the bigger picture first. Show me the broad ideas, then I can begin to piece together the why behind things. The details and fine nuances will come with time. I know that this is different for everyone and is what makes new staff orientation such a challenge. As with anything, a “one-size-fits-all” mentality for introducing new staff to an organization simply doesn’t work. My new workplace and its staff leaders understand this and have made me a crucial part of designing my own orientation. It’s among the many things that they do well and is a tribute to their organizational effectiveness.

An important aside, many thanks to all who left comments to my previous post seeking input on what to do to make the first week/month a success. It’s not too late. As I mentioned before, I’m strongly considering writing an article to help new managers enter this critical and exciting time in their career.

Be well.