Defining the “new normal”

Joanna Sharp
Training & Development Specialist, Fremont Bank

When we think of networking it normally involves meeting rooms, handshakes, and in-person conversation, something that we won’t be doing for a while. Fortunately, technology is allowing us to network while physically distancing. Hosted by Kalenga Pembamoto, South Bay Group Team Leader, ATD Golden Gate held a structured networking event for participants to meet and discuss the topic ‘redesigning your future normal’.

After introductions and setup, we were split into breakout rooms to discuss two questions: “what’s on our minds at the moment?” and “what support or advice would we like from the group?”. The discussions were lively and engaging, and offered great advice. Some examples include:

• We’re all in the same storm, but not in the same boat. Be empathetic towards others as they may be having different experiences than you
• Instead of the ‘new normal’ think of it as the ‘next normal’
• Step forward into the new possibilities that have arisen, rather than going backwards into what your job was
• Look for transferable skills when changing careers; tailor your CV to the role that you’re looking for

Thank you South Bay GIG, for hosting this session.  I for one am looking forward to the next one.