Employee lays groundwork to maximize job shadowing opportunity
Narrator: We are going to look in on Angela a mid career employee who is looking for a mentor for her leadership development program or LDP. Let’s see how she plans to proceed.
Angela, thinking to herself: New email – my next LDP assignment from HR. I need to find someone to shadow as part of my LDP. I have heard great things about how Charlotte leads the it division.
Angela: Hey, Sarah. Have you got a minute? I need your opinion.
Sarah: Is this about your LDP?
Angela: Yes, I was thinking of asking Charlotte from I.T. I have talked to some of her team and they say she is a great leader and really supportive.
Sarah: But I thought you weren’t interested in I.T.
Angela: Well, that is true. But the point of the assignment is for me to learn more about being an effective and innovative leader. I think Charlotte can show me how to become a better leader. I will reach out to her and see if we can meet.
Sarah: I like Charlotte, and I bet she will help if she can. Let me know what she says.
Angela, after sending email: Well, that’s done. Let’s see what she says.
[Text of email message follows]
Hi Charlotte,
My name is Angela Wright and I work in the customer service division. I am in the Department’s Leadership Development Program or LDP. As you know, a shadowing assignment is part of this program.
I heard from some of your team members how you support them and share teachable moments. I would like the opportunity to get together and talk about your leadership journey and, if we are a good fit, perhaps discuss a shadowing opportunity with you.
Attached is my current resume.
Respectfully,
Angela Wright
Customer Service, Senior Rep
Division ABC
[End of email message]
In Charlotte’s office, Charlotte, thinks to herself after reading the message: This is a good opportunity for me as well. Becoming a coach or a mentor shows I develop others and I’m open to sharing my knowledge outside my team. Only thing is, do I have time and good energy for working with Angela right now? [Fade out]
