I was raised to share; perhaps this is primarily due to having a twin sister. It is no wonder such phrases as, “Your candle loses nothing when it lights another” are easy for me to remember, and a favorite I oftentimes quote when coaching others to inspire and help another reach his or her potential.
I was recently speaking with a friend in regards to childhood dreams. This topic was in relation to what one wanted to do when one grew up. He then shared with me a video that he spoke of which was one of his favorites due to the messages and influence. I watched and listened to the late CMU Professor, Randy Pausch present, The Last Lecture, while cycling one morning on my indoor trainer.
As I watched and listened to The Last Lecture, I pondered what it was that I wanted to be when I grew up. I reflected and recalled I liked the idea of being a TV news presenter. I remember the fear of thinking I had to be a “know it all” and memorize the details. Little did I know about teleprompters. Here I am many years from my childhood years, with years of being an HR Business Partner. I then begin to think about the uncanny correlations of my current occupation and past childhood dream.
To be a TV presenter, it requires one to present information and give opinions. Also, capabilities such as introducing people to the show as well as interviewing guests are important. Furthermore, being able to link between segments of the show, as well as being comfortable taking part in onscreen activities are critical skills required.
From my experiences watching TV presenters, in my opinion, it is also about personalities. What usually makes or breaks one is about being able to project the right type of personality. I am deeply fascinated by personalities and love exploring various types.
Some of the other skills presenters are required to possess are a basic understanding of techniques and operations. Self-confidence is an important skill as well as interpersonal skills. Additionally, improvising skills and being able to work calmly under stress are required skills.
It excites me to ponder the correlations while perhaps not so obvious to others between an HR Engagement Partner to that of a TV presenter. First, the employee relations, as well as staffing components; they both align nicely with interviewing guests and introducing talent to the show competencies. Next, strategy and advocacy; the alignment with TV presenters’ presenting information and opinions. Additionally, OD and L&D components pair nicely with “taking part in onscreen activities” for performance which are required by TV presenters.
While I have a much smaller audience, I am living out my “what do you want to be when you grow up” scenario. Take a moment and ask yourself, what is it you wanted to be when you grew up?
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