Member of the Month
Questions:
1. Name, company, and role.
Brooke Jeffus
Nationwide Insurance
Direct Supervisor
2. What am I passionate about when it comes to talent development?
I am passionate about people! I am fortunate enough to lead a team with many different personalities, talents, and goals. One of the best parts of being a people leader/talent “developer” is really getting to know people and helping them to figure out how to best utilize their skills and talents. It makes work seem less like work and more like a family! I am also passionate about development- both for myself and my associates. We often get so caught up in helping others that we forget about developing ourselves. We need to be continually learning so we can continue to grow- both personally and professionally.
3. I am proud of….
My team at work! Similar to any large organization, we go through change quite often. These individuals have met the change with positivity and have challenged themselves to perform at a successful level no matter what is happening around them. They truly do make my job easier! Their engagement makes the workplace a fun one each day.
4. Looking back at myself on my first job… knowing what I know now… what advice would I give myself?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! It is absolutely fine if you don’t know everything. Asking questions serves you in more than one way. It allows you to gain new knowledge, and it also allows you to build relationships! I also remember the networking advice I received- “Don’t simply ask what someone can do for you…. but ask what can do for them!” (Thanks, Alan Feirer!) This is so true. Networking is a two-way street. Build relationships! Don’t just build a list of people that you can use to benefit yourself.
5. Some new industry trends and/or tools I am using are…
I am within my first year as a people-leader, so I am still getting to know the industry! When I was a Training Specialist I got my “Facilitating Synchronous Learning Certificate” through ATD and the virtual world is one that truly fascinates me. I have peers and associates in multiple locations and I’d love to learn more about the tools that make everyone feel more connected no matter where they are!