Recalibrating Your Approach to Leadership

What were some of your first impressions of AMP?

My biggest challenge when I arrived at AMP was disconnecting from the office, as we were in the midst of some important corporate activity. People were still sending me communications, but not everything, so I was frustrated. The first case we did in class was on Nike, and that really hit home because it made me realize I needed to ensure that my team knew my expectations and that I trusted them to be capable. So, I let my team know what I wanted and that I needed to focus on AMP. So, I started applying the AMP learning immediately!

The amount of reading in AMP is frightening, and there's no way around it. You have to put in the time and find your own best way to unpack the information. I'm a detail person, so it was hard for me to skim, but if you don't do some of that, you'll be up all night. I would recommend to anyone who is not a financial specialist to spend sufficient time doing the assigned pre-reading.

How did your living group enhance your AMP experience?

Coming to HBS was an extremely enriching experience, from the interactions in the classroom to the personal connections I've made. Because the class is big, you are always surrounded by people, but such a large group can also be a bit lonely. The living group is helpful because the people in your group become your support network. I felt they were there for me throughout the eight weeks. We established trust up front and that really served us well.

We all came from different countries, backgrounds, and industries, but we still had a lot in common. We were very cohesive as a group in part because we shared a common work ethic. Everyone came prepared. Everyone was able to contribute in his or her own way, and we respected each other's contributions. I always felt they were looking after me and that if I had a problem, they would be there for me. We started as a group but became a team.

What impressed you most about the learning process?

The case method is a very engaging way to learn. I was challenged from the very first case. Many of the cases focus on companies everyone is somewhat familiar with, though you quickly realize how little you know about these companies.

The process of studying a case is somewhat like painting a picture of the business situation. When you are preparing the case on your own, you create an outline and start to paint your own picture. Then the living group discussion fills in and sharpens that picture, and over time you rethink your picture. In the classroom, you're shown that there can be more than one picture. And at the end of every class, you realize that you've learned a new painting technique—or a new way to see.

The level of teaching—of performance in the classroom—is truly extraordinary. The professors connect ongoing flows of information in a coherent manner without knowing in advance what anyone will say. They piece together concepts throughout the discussion so that at the end of each class you can see how to apply them to your organization or your industry. Guiding the discussion in this way requires real skill that must take a lot of time to develop.

Which parts of the curriculum were most valuable for you?

Growing as a leader is one of my priorities, so I found the leadership module most valuable. I now realize that I need to spend more time asking questions—and asking better questions, rather than having all the answers. I have to dedicate more time to the people around me, rather than just chasing one deadline after another.

Going through the feedback from the 360-degree exercise was a much more powerful and emotional experience than I ever expected. The depth of the comments from my CEO, my colleagues, and my team members brought tears to my eyes. We sometimes forget the level of impact we have on others. During the past few weeks, I have thought more deeply about how others see me, how I influence them, and what my responsibilities are toward them.

How would you describe the program's impact?

My eight weeks at AMP were truly special—a time to take stock of where I am in life, what I'm passionate about, and how I can help others achieve their goals, since I've been truly blessed to have others help me reach mine.

I certainly expanded my knowledge and found the leadership style I want to develop. All of the cases, discussion, and reflection have combined to help me clarify who I am. I've thought deeply about my values and what is most important to me. Overall, my time at AMP has set me on a better path, with renewed energy, clarity, and purpose—and with new lifelong friends. I'm very grateful. I have a zest for life that I haven't felt for a very long time.