Member Spotlight.

Q: How long have you been a member of MNODN?  

A: I’m in my first year with MNODN. I had been thinking about joining after attending a global OD Network conference. The time was right once I learned my role was going to be eliminated this past year. I had a gut feeling this network would provide the support and resources for me as I craft the next stage of my career as an independent coach and consultant.

Q: What benefits do you gain from membership?

A: I’ve come into OD through career experience in communications, chief of staff and talent roles rather than a degree in the field. I joined this group to increase my knowledge about the practice of OD and fill in some gaps that my experience would not have covered. I also wanted to broaden my network of OD professionals in the Twin Cities.

Q: What special skills do you possess that make you an effective OD professional?

#1: I’m curious. This means I am willing to learn, ask good questions and try new ways of doing things.

#2: I listen and hold space for others to explore possibilities. This means I can serve as a change agent through consulting, coaching and facilitation to help people manage the human side of change.

Q: How have you participated in MNODN?

• The professional development programming has been very helpful in answering questions I’ve had about OD. I have gained a lot from sessions where we hear from leaders in the field about the history of OD and where we learn new tools.

• I’ve really enjoyed the networking sessions. Everyone I’ve met through MNODN is welcoming, encouraging and warm. It didn’t take long for me to feel like I belonged at these events.

• Finally, I participated in the mentoring program this year. This was a valuable way to gain additional knowledge about OD that was specific to my needs. I looked forward to these calls and appreciated my mentor’s willingness to share her depth of expertise as well as the time she invested in our conversations.

Q: What advice do you have for people entering the field?

Join MNODN! Attend the calls / in person sessions and reach out to folks who you meet. Be part of building this community and give yourself time to find your place in it. Dig in and explore the resources. Also, check out the broader OD Network for content and programming.