Accelerating the Transition to Leader
Joanne Hames has always been a skilled doer, but as she advanced in her career, she realized it was time to step back, strategize more, and let her team do the day-to-day work. In the Program for Leadership Development (PLD), Hames found a supportive community of peers, insights into her strengths and weaknesses as a leader, and a new baseline for personal and professional growth.
How did your PLD peers enhance the learning experience?
It was invaluable to me to get outside my bubble, see the rest of the world, and learn how others are dealing with their challenges. It was really eye-opening to share the PLD experience with 160 people who get how you tick because they are just like you. We came from different backgrounds and cultures from all over the world, but at our core we all operate the same way.
PLD immediately presents a feeling of community. You can be yourself and not worry about how others might perceive you. I laughed every day with my living group—I haven't laughed that much in I don't know how long.
What particular PLD moment stands out for you?
We were discussing effective leaders' strengths and specific ways in which they can be perceived as weaknesses. A highly intelligent leader, for example, can be intimidating to colleagues. I began to understand feedback I'd received in the past. It was a humbling moment—and a good challenge. It prompted me to think about how I can modify my behavior so that people see strengths rather than flaws.
How will your learning in PLD impact your career?
Going through PLD at this point in your career gives you the foundation for an exceptional career going forward. It has given me a new baseline from which to operate. If I thought I was at 10 before, now 10 is the new 5 and I have the capacity to stretch further.
How has PLD changed you?
Overall, the experience was incredible—completely life changing. It's changed how I look at the world. It's changed how I look at myself. And it's definitely changed how I look at my organization and how we're going to be able to move ahead. People can actually see the change in me. During the program, I was on video chat with one of my friends from home and the first thing he said was, "You look different."