Let the Good Times Roll...up.

If you work really hard and you're nice, amazing things will happen.

Conan O'Brien

Thanks to all of you who have asked about how my career transition is going!  I spent 2 weeks training in St. Louis before starting my new role in Denver.  As I detailed in the previous post, the new organization is very different (thank God) from the Alliance.  Trust me, no one at this place is discussing my start time.  Definitely more important things to think about...

I'm a people watcher.  I pay attention to body language, listen for what isn't being said, and seek to understand culture by the behavior of those with whom I interact.  While in St. Louis, I sought to understand the makings of what I'll continue to call, The Firm.  At The Firm, everyone works through lunch.  Everyone.  People take food into meetings and proceed to enjoy last night's pizza while discussing the transition to a new payroll system. At first I found this unusual. However, I've come to appreciate that at any given moment I can connect with anyone that I need to, because they are onsite all day.  This includes the President.  It's a fast paced environment with massive daily productivity.

I've come to learn that The Firm has its own vocabulary.  For example, associates don't report to a supervisor- they roll up to him/her.  They don't follow up with you on issues, they circle back.  An imperfect result is a one off; and difficulties within a process are described as pain points.  To include another individual, is to loop them in; and working at your best is to be in your wheelhouse.  Baseball games are akin to going to church, and opening day is cause for all associates to wear jerseys to work.  

I had a meeting with 9 women (a first for me since the Alliance doesn't allow the weaker sex to commune unless discussing things like assignments for a potluck, or how to better clean the kitchen for the men in the building). I couldn't help but smile, as this meeting was surreal.  I was sitting around a table with some of the smartest women I'd ever met.  Interestingly, in this room full of MBAs and estrogen-laced confidence, I noticed that every woman touches and adjusts her hair while adding to the discussion.  Also- lipstick is an acceptable accessory during meetings, however, cell phones are not.  

Diversity is abundant.  This includes age, race, gender, and sexual orientation.  Every employee is expected to adhere to the core competencies, one of which is Trust & Integrity.  I love this!

People are happy.   HR is respected.  Gossip isn't tolerated.  Leaders are friendly.  Men wear ties.  Work/Life Balance is a priority.  Video conferencing is daily.  Policy is followed.  Women are equals.  Meetings end on time.  Binge tv is conversation.  Happy Hour is a given.  Sexy shoes are everywhere!  

At every single introduction I was told, "Welcome to The Firm!"  I don't know what the future holds, but I know this:  I'm enjoying the ride!

With Faith, ~Shugie