“Step so far outside your comfort zone that you forget how to get back.”
Expansions is a leadership development program offered twice a year by the Academy of Learning & Development. Team Members who are seeking further development and growth are encouraged to apply for this 6-month program which involves mentorships, leadership classes and a group project with an executive sponsor. Each month we’re highlighting an Expansion Alumni to hear their story.
When asked why she applied for Expansions, this is what Jessica had to say:
In our ever-evolving business world it is important to take advantage of opportunities given, to stretch outside of your comfort zone, and show your potential. I am thankful that I was given an opportunity to be challenged and showcase strengths that could prove helpful to our company. I have worked for major competitors in our industry and have never been given the opportunity to develop as a leader the way I have in my time with Holiday Inn Club Vacations. Our training and development opportunities are endless. This company fosters a growth mindset which naturally attracted me to our development programs. Holiday Inn Club Vacations is willing to invest in its talent and the return can be boundless if you are willing to commit to it.
What are your takeaways from being part of Expansions?
I was pleasantly surprised at the thoughtful way this program was developed to illicit the most from its participants. Not only did it provide traditional leadership classes on how to hone your skills, but it also included a group project where you were able to implement lessons learned and think through solutions. These projects were thoughtfully chosen based on your own feedback to give you the most out of your time in the program. It gave me the focused development that I needed to reach the next level in my career. The true test of leadership is when you are stretched beyond your everyday skills and are able to implement new ideas to solve a problem. This program doesn’t just speak to you it teaches you how to think as a leader. Expansions does exactly that, expands what you already have, to leverage your skills and prepare you for the next level of growth! Thankful for the opportunity and can’t wait to see the next class of future leaders that will benefit as I did!
Be on the lookout for other rising leaders, like Jessica, as we continue this monthly series spotlighting our leadership development program graduates.
