Managing the Matrix: The Secret to Surviving and Thriving in Your Organization

4

Working on Objectives

Debra found that she was looking forward to seeing Johann, her mentor (it still sounded strange to her ears), again. She felt that she had prepared well and was excited to get help on fixing the things that were stopping her from getting the job she wanted next.

Johann, too, was excited about his day. His mentoring days were the ones he most looked forward to. Although often the problems didn't have just one “right” answer and were mostly messy, “human” problems, he enjoyed helping his mentees navigate the workplace and get results. He had been pleased to see that Debra had asked for an hour and had provided him with her documents. He'd found time to look through and make some notes but, although he had a number of thoughts, he was aware of the need not to have too many pre-conceived notions and to let the mentee decide on the direction. As long as, of course, the objectives were work related and within the agreed parameters.

There was a knock on the door and Debra poked her head through, “still ok to meet?” Johann stood up and moved around the desk to greet her warmly. They sat and made small talk until Johann suggested they get to work. “I've had a chance to look at the documents. I thought they were interesting. What were your thoughts?”

As they discussed the documents Johann challenged Debra to see if she felt any of the “critical” comments could, if true, explain why she didn't get the job (the reason they were meeting today).

“I don't know, I don't ...