What is the most important thing you have learned in this course pertaining to being an OD practitioner? I think my biggest learning from WFED 572 is that there are many, many methods, practices and learnings in the world of research and application with the OD field. With 15+ years of practical work experience, through my readings, assignments and research, I have a much better understanding of “where” the theories and science of the practices come from. Likely one of my biggest takeaways is around the idea of a true change transformation. My company is in a constant state of change and amazingly, some of them are so large and broad that they end up being quite related to transformational change. In reflection, as many of the change movements have not been successful, I can now see why. Too much change, not enough strategy and proper planning, and the leadership often forgetting about the people the change is most affecting.
What steps do you need to take to further develop as an OD practitioner? I am early on in my master’s program. This is my first semester and I took 3 classes – 572, 865 and 880. Lots of learning ahead and I am still excited and happy to be in the program. I am thoughtfully thinking about the classes I choose within the program and greatly wanting to learn and grow. I have a very open mind and am excited for the challenge and experiences ahead. I want to continue to learn from my classmates and their experiences in the workplace.
What did you learn about yourself, your preferences (personality), your style, your strengths, and so on, that will influence how you perform your work going forward? One of my big learnings is around team work. These were often some of my most engaging moments in all of my classes, however, it is quite challenging to balance time zones and people’s schedules. I do cherish owning my schedule and completing my individual assignments on my timeline. I made a norm for myself to always be at least a week ahead in my assignments and readings and was able to keep this norm in tact with the exception of the group assignments. I had to trust the process and trust the group. Another learning that I am taking away is that I joined the program to hopefully bring back knowledge and experience to my current workplace. I am now wondering and curious what else might be out there for me once I complete this program. The working world is changing as well, so I have a new perspective on being open to opportunities, should they cross my path.