The Monticello team attended the NEXT 2021 Conference, which has become an incubator for showcasing innovation, providing national perspective on important industry issues, and demonstrating how businesses and co-ops are embracing the future. Focusing on influential women in Banking and Payments, there were several panels of honorees to discuss their experience in the industry and how the events of the last year have changed the way they work. The takeaways across panels seemed to fall into a few categories:
Taking on new responsibilities at work may seem like a daunting challenge, but is a valuable learning experience
o When you think you are able to take on something new, speak up and make sure your capabilities are known, especially when working remotely
o If someone pushes new responsibilities that you do not have prior experience with, there are always other experiences you have that can be utilized
o If you suggest something new and are told ‘no’ because the current model is “successful,” it might be time to reevaluate the success criteria
In the age of remote working, it is crucial to clearly define your work/life balance
o With the loss of commute time, many people are losing productive alone time
o May be helpful to mark the beginning and end of your work day with a different ritual, such as going for a walk or listening to a podcast
It is imperative to be able to discuss difficult issues at work that may not be historically “work-appropriate”
o Sincerely check in with coworkers about how they are doing and what issues they face both in and out of the workplace
o Diversity within the organization is the best way to ensure issues are discussed fairly
o It is better to discuss issues and say the wrong thing than not discuss issues at all
As we move forward, it is important to take the lessons we have learned in the past year with us. Whether working remotely or in-person, the events of the last year can help provide a guide to a better, more supportive workplace.
