In managing staff over the past 7 years, the first item I always get on the table is where they want to be in a certain number of years, and then we work on how I can help them get there. Sometimes it’s with me, other times, their goals require them to move on. It’s the building blocks for developing a good working relationship with staff.
I thought often about Jessica’s post in the last few weeks about myself as well. I have moved quite a bit over the past 10 years — California, Pennyslvania, Delaware and now Louisiana. I have found my passion, but it’s required some changes, which is OK. My passion is first my family’s happiness. Second, it’s for the work I do in Public Relations, public interaction, and the transportation/infrastructure/construction industry. In professional life, I am aggressive and believe in standing up, getting work done, and taking on tasks, jobs, efforts in a team framework. I am never more proud of an effort when several people come together to get a project or task done, and are able to build relationships, and partnerships that are long lasting. This is the most rewarding part of my job. I have little patience for those who don’t believe in this core value. The greatest challenge is the feeling of disappointment when this isn’t in place from those who prefer silos. I am continuing to pursue my passion in professional life by not being content to sit back, by charging forward and by understanding some days will be hard because when you set high goals and expectations, you are bound to have folks disappoint you.
To learn more about Darrel, follow him on Twitter (@transpr) or connect with him on Linkedin.
