Integration

This week I was interviewed for a new job. Until recently I have usually secured employment through friends or acquaintances. And sometimes I have played out my "Little Red Hen" scenario, meaning, if you have forgotten her story, "I'll do it myself". Which when translated into work and a career means I have started several of my own entrepreneurial businesses.

I have not had a lot of practice going to interviews. It is a study in understanding who you are meeting and being firmly connected to who you are. Lately all over the web I have read that if you don't brand yourself others will. A very wise woman by the name of Mary Rosenbaum posted this recently "Living the authentic you in all you do is what personal branding is all about." I have taken this on as my mantra.

This week I went to an interview armed with my research into the company, and the people interviewing me with a sense of curiosity. Of course there is always the "will they like me?" niggling in the background, but foremost for me was how could I be of service to these people and this company. After the lunch and the goodbyes, I could not help but reflect on a particular issue that was brought up at lunch.

The issue was accountability. How does one garner accountability from others, and make it a safe place to explore, seeing it as an opportunity. Does one exemplify it oneself hoping that your example will be ample proof that it is something that is worthwhile? Or do you assign tasks with milestones and clear goals, leaving little room for the experience of choice? Maybe it’s all of these. I have not had success in making anyone "be" accountable, they either are or they are not. I have learned that being accountable is a wonderful opportunity, and yes I have had some spectacular belly flops, and on the other hand, some marvelous successes. I’ll take accountability any day of the week and twice on Sundays.