Welcome to June, the second month of what I call “The Hidden Golden Quarter.” Just like May, June and July are usually months with great autonomy. June is a time to solidify results for the first half of the year. In addition, it is a perfect time for reflection. We are accustomed to year-end reviews, job interviews and exit interviews. June is an ideal time for you to conduct a “stay interview.” More on that in a minute.
Push for Results
Similar to March, channel your energy to deliver tangible results by the end of June. Ask yourself, “What projects could be completed if I focus my energy?” Review your performance objectives set by your manager. How far along are you at completing major tasks? Adjust your execution strategy based on the following scenarios:
Scenario #1: You Have Not Started on the Objective
Has the priority of the objective evolved or changed over time? If it is no longer a major initiative, confirm with your manager and adjust the goals in your performance management system. If it continues to be a priority, get started! Remember Newton’s laws of motion from science class? A body at rest will remain at rest, and a body in motion will remain in motion unless it is acted upon by an external force.
Scenario #2: You Have Started and are 60%+ Complete
Great job. Continue to work to deliver results. Do you anticipate any barrios to completing the task? If so, discuss with team members, your manager, and stakeholders to develop a plan. You don’t want to be caught in the “last mile problem” a business term that refers to the rising cost and gap of getting people from a transportation hub to their final destination. You don’t get rewarded for almost completing a project. Now is the time to marshal the resources (people, dollars, etc.) to get the job done.
Scenario #3: You Have Started and are <50% Complete
It could be the case that the work for this initiative is scheduled for the last half of the year. If so, now is the time to ensure you have the team, resources, and approvals you need to complete the work. You’ll have less flexibility and cushion if things go sideways. Also, six months have passed since this work was put on your to-do list. Now is a good time to validate that nothing has changed.
Time for Self-Reflection Using the “Stay Interview”
Rewarding careers balance money and meaning. Life is more than just money, and workers over the last decade have begun to demand that purpose, alignment to values, and wellness be important parts of work. With that in mind, time to assess your current role.
Stay Interview Questions:
- Has your manager done anything in the last 12-months that makes you think about leaving the department, team, or organization?
- What can your manager do to make your job more satisfying?
- Do you feel you get enough recognition? How do you like to be recognized?
- If your current job were open and advertised today, would you apply for it?
Calculate the Expected Value of Your Current Role
Rate your job across three value components. To make this task easier, refer to my Expected Value Toolkit on my website. (LINK).
Present Value: What value do you get out of your job currently?
- Compensation (Base, Bonus, Equity)
- Benefits (Health, Financial, Education)
- Access to Advice / Discounts
Future Value: What value could you get out of your job in the future?
- Micro Value (Pay, Promotion, Become a Manager of People)
- Macro Value (People You Work With, Economic, Industry Reputation, Access to Technology)
Intangible Value: How well does the culture and job align with my values?
- Desired Work Model (Office, Remote, Hybrid)
- Relationship with Boss (Sponsor, Mentor, Blocker, Non-Factor)
- Cultural Fit (Mission, Values, Working Norms)
- Location (Family, Fit, Commute)
In broad terms, assess each component and sub-component and determine if you would rate it high (a perfect or great fit with me); medium (good or okay for now); or low (poor or unacceptable in the near term). Use the toolkit to create a more precise score.
Share your thoughts with your spouse, close friends, or mentor. Anyone who has your best interest at heart. Ask if they agree with your assessment. If you are not satisfied with the results, begin to make a plan to change your situation. If you are satisfied, use this assessment to compare your current situation with any new opportunities presented to you.
Bottom Line
June is a time to solidify results for the first half of the year. Ensure you have the resources and support you need to achieve your major objectives for the year. In addition, it is a perfect time for reflection. Time to evaluate your current role by conducting your “say interview.”
