I like structure. I like learning from people who have come before me. As I like to say, “I can think outside of the box, but there needs to be a box.”
That’s why I enjoyed my time in the corporate world. Sure, there were days that are a little frustrating, but that’s how it is everywhere. There were a lot of pre-established policies and procedures so you didn’t have to spend time worrying about the “how,” and instead you could focus on the “what.” Once you get rolling, you can start innovating the “how” and the “what,” moving your company forward.
What I also love about organizations (not just companies) is that there are usually a lot of resources available to you. When I was a sorority advisor, I had manuals and trainings I could utilize. As I start my MBA program, there’s a group called the MBA Association that offers everything from professional to personal development programs.
Call me crazy, but if it’s there, I’m going to take advantage.
Apparently people do think I’m crazy. Not everyone, but sometimes I get the, “Why would you join that?” shocked look from people. It reminds me of being in high school when peers thought it wasn’t cool to be in the National Honor Society. Why not? It wasn’t just a line on a college application, but a way to provide service to the community, foster scholarship, and build a better student body.
I admit it, I’m a joiner.
If there’s an association or group that might make an impact on the community or professional world, while still giving me the opportunity to learn and grow, I’ll do it. I fully believe you get what you put into things, and why not benefit when there are others like you uniting their efforts?
Leadership opportunities aren’t limited only to the office. Special projects might show up through your volunteer organization, not just a cross-functional group. Learning new skills isn’t unique to a classroom setting.
I think if you have the too-cool-for-school attitude about joining organizations, you’re missing out. You’re probably setting yourself up for disappointment actually. Down the line, you’ll kick yourself when you see all that you missed. Or, you’ll be a baby and continue to bad mouth what you’re too ignorant to utilize.
Don’t worry, you won’t be duped into blindly following everyone as they jump off a bridge. If anything, they’ll be insuring you have a safety instructor and backup bungee cord. As you get more comfortable with joining, guess what will also happen?
You’ll be better at leading.
Sounds like a no-brainer to me.
Photo credit.
Thanks for this post, Emily! The current trend everywhere online these days seems to push so much for doing your own independent thing, but like you, choosing an organizational path has been great for me. I know I’ve learned more than I would have on my own, and if you choose your corporate life carefully, it can be a very good thing!
Hi Jenn, there has been a lot of focus about the individual lately. I think there’s a lot to be said for standing out, but I think the most successful people who are individuals had a lot of help from groups to get there. Also, I think many do give back to associations and other organizations when they can. It’s funny to think about the emphasis on individuals when there’s also a drive for community out there. Thanks!
You are a breath of fresh air and a smart one too! Loners don’t become leaders. We have to join or build around us an opportunity for others to join so that we can make a difference. I call it “attracting a following” which includes being willing to follow too!
There is no better proof in the business world or the community that you can work with others, be collaborative, serve the needs of a group, and self-manage than to be part of a larger group–yes, to join in!
Good for you! Your approach and ability to extract great things while you do great things is precisely the right direction! ~Dawn
Thank you Dawn, as always, your comment is really right on target. Plus, always encouraging. I’m actually focusing a lot right now on how I can become involved in things that are better for my professional and personal life. We’re all busy, so I can’t go on a joining spree, but I can think about what groups are going to help me make a difference (and provide me with results in return). Plus, those kinds of networks are invaluable. Thanks!
Depends on what “joiner” might mean. I think joiners are fabulous – because they are proactive, they want to learn and they’re taking action to learn from others (one of the best ways to learn, network and be part of something).
Although I don’t work for a corporation – I do love having a full-time job, working with a group of people and honestly, I feel as though I’m getting my MBA with the amount of tactical experience I’m getting and the way our VP’s and CEO mentor me.
I’m all about it. And honestly, as long as we’re true to ourselves then you are exactly who and where and what you should be doing 🙂
PS. Jenny wrote a good post about 10 reasons she loves her cube, you may have already seen it but it’s similar and I LOVE it: (http://www.lifeaftercollege.org/blog/2010/01/10/i-love-my-cubicle/).
Grace, that’s actually one of my favorite posts from Jenny. I did a little dance when I saw it because it was a great reminder that a lot of the dream cool companies are corporations…you can have a variety of environments not only across different companies, but even different locations within the same company.
Your energy about learning as much as you can from those around you is so important for the rest of us to remember. I know that you can get bogged down in your own responsibilities. And you’re right, there are many things you get on the job that you may not see in a classroom. I’m already noticing all the places where I can say, “I did that” and it’s only the second day of class for me. Being open to learning, then applying, and leading actually draws people to you, as well. Thanks so much!!
This is one of my biggest problems. I am not much of a joiner — and yes, I kick myself for not having taken advantage of past opportunities!
I think it’s one of my “life lessons” — that I learn how to join…
Pearl
Hearing that from you, Pearl, makes me think there’s a lot of merit in knowing how to join on a social basis. For example, there are people who will always stand in the corner when forced into a group situation. Even if the natural inclination might be to go home after making an appearance, it’s taking the time to be present in the moment that people overlook. We spend a lot of time thinking about what waits for us at home instead of what someone might be saying to us. If we try to be more present, even socially, we essentially join in on those moments, still being able to learn (even if it’s about a new wine or restaurant in town). Thanks!