Speaking the language of a large, complex organization is a skill that takes some time to develop. In my new role, I have been tackling the challenge of learning a great deal about how the organization operates and understanding my own role. I have been particularly struck by the great amount of abbreviations that need to be mastered and understood in the course of daily work. The organization does have an acronym dictionary available for staff (a great idea to implement if you don’t have one) but, almost by definition, it cannot cover everything. So I’m taking copious notes, asking questions and meeting with my colleagues to deepen my understanding.
This particular experience has also prompted me to reflect on my ongoing journey from student to professional, a journey that is still unfolding. Back when I was a university student, people would sometimes say one of the benefits of university study is learning how to learn. That is absolutely true! All those study habits, highly developed reading skills and so far are tremendously valuable in the world of work. I am also finding the ability to quickly asses and understand complex documents and policies to be worthwhile, even if the approach is new to me. As much as I am focused on being a professional, I still think there is much to be said for the wide ranging interests and curiousity of (good) students. Those are some of the traits that I will seek to keep.
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