How do I improve and develop my skills?
It’s challenging, because you’re in the thick of delivery work. You’re working with clients every day. So, not only do you need to ask how, but also when.
How and when do I have time to improve and develop my skills?
Here’s a true story about finding a way.
I was coaching a client, a consultancy practice lead. He had an issue with a weekly meeting he had to attend. Everyone was there, fifteen people or so, it was mandatory.
It was a poor meeting. Nothing much happened as a result. My action-oriented client found this frustrating.
Asked how the meeting could become a learning experience he came up with an idea. He’d try to direct the conversation with questions. Not by making comments. And observe the interpersonal dynamics.
He was delighted with the outcome. Next time we spoke he told me how much he’d learnt about the micro-politics in the room. He’d also nudged the conversation back and forth with questions. He’d had fun and expanded his skillset.
The lesson here. You’ll improve and develop the skills you decide to improve and develop. Then practice them on purpose. And find time by building that practice into daily routines.
Mini-mission: Decide right now on one small thing you’d like to improve. Choose a time and space to test that out.
Really, that’s all you have to do. Decide and choose.
PS: This is not about listening in meetings!