When I first discussed the Penn State Emerging Leader’s program with my supervisor, my main interest in the program was to improve my communications and management/organization. While I work in communications, I think there is an opportunity to improve my articulation/brevity, especially when I’m working with executive audiences. My assessment lines up almost exactly with the feedback I received from my peers. This is very encouraging as it means I’m on the right track.
Surprises
I was surprised by a couple things. One, was that my self evaluation was lower than the scores my peers gave me. Coupled with the responses to my Best Self evaluation, this was very humbling. Anytime I need a boost I plan on reading over those responses. The other big surprise was the gap between my assessment for creativity and confidence with speaking. I always feel very confident about speaking in front of others, but I think my natural, playful way of speaking may undermine that. Also, I am very active outside of work: writing, music, etc. so I always will consider myself very creative, but that creative energy may not be trickling into my work projects as often as I thought. After this evaluation, I’m working on a plan on ways to improve.