Assume the role of an employee who is new to an organization that provides family preservation and family reunification services. This is a larger organization than you are used to and there are over 150 professionals on staff!In your previous job, you worked in a smaller and more intimate environment. You are currently feeling a bit lost. You find yourself uncertain about how to prioritize your tasks and unsure if your completed assignments meet the requirements. Your supervisor is busy and not particularly good about giving constructive feedback. You remain committed to this job and are excited about the career possibilities it will offer.
Share three strategies you would try in order to obtain the guidance and knowledge you need to survive and thrive within this organization.
In response to your peers, provide feedback on your classmate's proposed strategies and share tips to make them more efficient and effective.
Full Answer Section
Strategy 1: Charting the Map: Building a Network and Finding Mentors
- Seek out the "office whisperers": Every organization has those individuals who know the ropes, the unofficial guides who can navigate the labyrinthine hallways and policies. Ask colleagues, especially those who've been around for a while, for recommendations. These "whisperers" can point you towards crucial resources, introduce you to key players, and offer invaluable insights into the organization's culture and expectations.
- Initiate "coffee chats": Schedule informal coffee meetings with colleagues from different departments. This is a low-pressure way to learn about their roles, ask specific questions, and gain a broader understanding of the organization's structure and processes. Don't be shy, most people are happy to help a new face find their way.
- Embrace the power of mentorship: Actively seek a mentor within the organization. A seasoned professional in family support can provide invaluable guidance on navigating casework, building relationships with families, and navigating the organization's internal dynamics. Look for mentors who share your values and career aspirations, and be proactive in initiating conversations and requesting mentorship.
Strategy 2: Mastering the Compass: Clarifying Expectations and Prioritizing Tasks
- Seek clarity from the source: Don't hesitate to schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your concerns. Explain your feelings of uncertainty and ask for specific feedback on your work. Request clear expectations regarding project deliverables, communication protocols, and performance evaluation criteria. Proactive communication with your supervisor will set the stage for a more productive and supportive relationship.
- Utilize existing resources: Most large organizations have comprehensive training materials, employee handbooks, and internal wikis. Familiarize yourself with these resources to understand the organization's policies, procedures, and expectations for different roles. This can help you prioritize tasks and ensure your work meets the required standards.
- Embrace the power of collaboration: Don't be afraid to ask colleagues for help when needed. Teamwork is essential in family support, and your colleagues can be valuable resources for clarifying priorities, offering guidance on specific tasks, and helping you navigate complex situations.
Strategy 3: Fueling the Journey: Cultivating a Growth Mindset and Maintaining Passion
- Embrace the learning curve: Remember, you're new! Accept that there will be a learning curve, and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Be patient with yourself, actively seek feedback, and celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
- Stay connected to your passion: Don't let the administrative hurdles or initial uncertainty dampen your passion for family preservation and reunification. Remind yourself why you entered this field in the first place. Focus on the positive impact you're making in the lives of families, and let that passion fuel your motivation to learn and grow.
- Seek external support: If you're feeling overwhelmed or discouraged, reach out to colleagues, friends, or family members who can offer encouragement and support. Consider joining professional organizations or online communities specifically for family support workers. Sharing your experiences and connecting with others facing similar challenges can be a powerful source of strength and motivation.
Remember, navigating a large organization is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, be proactive, and most importantly, stay passionate about the work you do. By implementing these strategies, you'll build your network, clarify expectations, and cultivate the growth mindset essential for thriving in this new environment.
Feedback for Peers:
As your peers share their strategies, I encourage you to provide constructive feedback that is both specific and actionable. Here are some tips:
- Identify the strengths of their strategies: What aspects of their approach seem particularly effective?
- Offer suggestions for improvement: Can you think of additional resources or tools they could utilize? Is there a way to make their strategy more efficient or effective?
- Share your own experiences: Have you faced similar challenges in a new organization? What strategies helped you overcome them?
By providing thoughtful and supportive feedback, we can create a collaborative learning environment where we all benefit from each other's experiences. Let's help each other find our way through the labyrinth and thrive in our new roles as family support warriors!