What Are You Known For?

To most HORNE team members in other locations, I am that loud Noo Yaww-ker from Lawn-guy-land that buzzes through greeting all at a decibel intended to be heard over a passing subway train. I tawwk loud and fast and will say, "Waz up" to anyone I encounter. I don’t drink caw-fee, but love a good bay-gle—which, by the way, you can’t get in the south. Fuhgeddaboudit!

While I do love that side of my personality, I’ve recently been wondering—is that all I am known for? I don’t think so, but how can I make sure that is not the not the only thing someone thinks of when my name is mentioned? How am I projecting my knowledge and value to my managers, team members and clients alike? Can I improve my visibility beyond the notion of the loud person with an accent and be that person ready to serve when opportunities arise?

Feedback conversations are a great way to gain insight into what others see in you.  Feedback recognizes the achievements made as well as identifies the areas where additional work needs to be done. Have a certain knack or interest in a particular area? A conversation between you and your performance advisor allows proactive guidance in achieving your goals. These conversations are just as much your time to ask for the type of feedback and clarity you need as it’s the other person’s time to share in meaningful dialogue.

I’d also encourage you to seek feedback outside of those you work with day to day. Different perspectives can really add value and help you uncover some blind spots you may have otherwise not known existed. Make sure you are fully engaged in these conversations and are open to all the feedback, so you too can be known for more than just your accent.

About the Author

Christine Waldron is a government services manager at HORNE in the New York area. When she’s not serving her clients with Community Development Block Grants assistance, she’s sharing her personality with her fellow HORNE team members one feedback conversation at a time.