I had an interesting conversation the other day regarding sabbaticals. The person I was speaking with mentioned their company would not be interested in anyone who had a break in their service for a sabbatical. At first I thought the company wanted to ensure that the person who joins their organization kept their skills sharp, and was up to date on the latest technology etc. It didn’t take me long to change my mind….
After our conversation I thought about the comment regarding the company’s feelings on sabbaticals…and then I said out loud “Are you kidding me?” There are so many people who take sabbaticals for a variety of reasons; illness in the family, education, travel, rejuvination, thoughts of changing industries and the list goes on. The idea that a company would not be interested in someone because of a sabbatical is antiquated.
I think about my own sabbatical and how much I have grown in both my professional career and as an individual. In the two years since I chose to leave my position I have been blessed to have the opportunity serve on the board of my church, become the marketing chair of our annual fundraising event, created DVD videos for events, learned about new tools for marketing and promotions, consulted on a some interesting projects including a new business launch, and have had the ability to meet some of the most incredible people.
The opportunity to meet and get to know so many talented people has been the most amazing part since taking a break from the corporate world. Had I not placed myself outside my comfort zone I would have continued each day going to my job, putting my nose to the grindstone to work hard …but I would have remained with my head in the sand.
How many people are guilty of working really hard, and not getting out and networking, or taking the time to join an industry organization, or dare I say – meeting anyone outside the four walls of their corporate building? Let me tell you while you may be working so hard to get ahead - you are doing yourself a huge disservice if you don’t take some time and invest in yourself, whether that is networking, attending industry events or taking a class. You need to get out and breathe the air outside your building!
So as I think back to my conversation, I realize the funny thing is my skills are sharper now, my contacts are much more diverse, and I have more knowledge on new trends such social media all because of my sabbatical. My plan is to continue to learn and invest in myself, but more importantly share my knowledge with individuals and companies in the future.
Of course , now I wonder in a world that is quickly evolving how companies who claim to be very progressive will survive when they are still so routed to their past ideas… for better or for worse.
