Suggestions on increasing value in a new role needed.

Anonymous

July 5,2022 at 8:13PM UTC

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Suggestions on increasing value needed.

I was hired for a great director role in my field. My boss is the person I am replacing. They are retiring in Q1 (in 9 months) I just found out that they expected the hiring process to take six months, so they built that into the timeline. My hire took six weeks. I would not say that I am bored but my boss is not ready to hand anything over to me so I have A LOT of downtime. I keep volunteering to help but so far I only have about 2 - 4 hours per day of meetings and work. How can I add value in the meantime? No one has taken me up on my offers to help. I am thinking I need to make up some projects but also want to be mindful of the kinda “special” culture. Also everyone is remote so I’ve tried coming in to see office to network and there’s usually 3 people across 3 floors ;/

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AnonymousJuly 5,2022 at 8:36PM UTC
Learn and smile. Continue working on relationships. Consider some professional development in areas where you want to build new skills. I'm not sure what else you could really do, and you don't want to become a thorn in anyone's side. On the positive note, you'll be more than ready when the transition actually comes.
AnonymousJuly 7,2022 at 2:36AM UTC
Thank you!
Sophie JoernJuly 5,2022 at 8:48PM UTC
This sounds like a great opportunity to build some new skills that will come in handy for your new role! Do some research on both hard and soft skills that are important for being successful in the role. Use other networking tools like local organization/chapters or LinkedIn to connect with others in similar positions and ask for informational interviews! Ask questions like what they wish they knew before taking on this level of a role or what advice they would give to someone like yourself. The succession process can take a while, so give as much grace as you can and continue to show your eagerness to learn! Congrats!
AnonymousJuly 7,2022 at 2:35AM UTC
Awesome advice. Thank you.
Cyndi RosenblattJuly 6,2022 at 2:52AM UTC
I was also thinking along the lines of using this time for professional development. Maybe job shadow (with her blessing) so you can make sure you understand what the folks who will work under you are doing. Not trying to take over anyone else's role, just making sure you have a grip on what's going on, what's working, what might benefit from changes when your turn comes, etc.
AnonymousJuly 7,2022 at 2:36AM UTC
Thank you!
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachJuly 6,2022 at 2:05PM UTC
Depends. Do you want to stick it out & stay here? The previous comment on job shadowing is a great idea. You could also be thinking about your strengths specifically and how you want to impact the company and start working on that - even if it's just planning!
AnonymousJuly 7,2022 at 2:36AM UTC
Thank you!
AnonymousJuly 6,2022 at 2:34PM UTC
This place seems dysfunctional. You have the free time to work on a job search, which may be the best thing for you. Someone will appreciate what you have to offer.
AnonymousJuly 7,2022 at 2:34AM UTC
I’m glad you said that. It might not be a good fit for me. I really appreciate the long landing strip but it might be too long.