Get A Grip

When you look up the definition of power in the dictionary, grip is one of its synonyms. I thought this photo was appropriate for a first blog post about my fellowship at Florida Power and Light. The first day on any new job is much like the first day in the classroom. Learning others names, the structure of the organization, the processes of moving from point A to B successfully, what's expected to succeed and who ultimately is in charge of helping me reach the next level of attainment are all parts of a holistic approach to efficiently and successfully navigating both environments.

How do you get a grip on all things possible in eight short hours?  Well, I started by arriving early.  GPS said it would take 8 minutes from my hotel to FPL. I left at 8:30 and I pulled into the parking lot at 8:40 ~ 20 minutes early.  Those who know me well know what an accomplishment this is for me. But since first impressions are everything, I most certainly didn't want my impression to convey anything but my respect for those who will be ushering me through this important learning experience.

After a general orientation to the company, Diane (my mentor for the week) was diligent in showing me how to get a quick grip on the organizational structure of FPL, and what their social team had on their plate. We shared a chuckle when we realized we both had used almost identical videos of social media orientation to groups we had presented to recently. Check out the video I used here.

It was also a delight to meet the wizard behind the public relations curtain. The glue holding the troops together is Rob Gould, Vice President of Marketing and Communication. I also sat in numerous meetings with diverse members on a variety of teams within the Marketing and Communications team. Each group was very kind and welcomed my questions and feedback. I anxiously (and quite possibly very nerdy) took notes quickly trying to gain a deeper understanding and get a grip on all the information provided.

I hadn't been there yet two hours before I found myself agreeing to present a workshop at the end of the fellowship on the mechanics of writing for social media. I've already starting gathering information to present. I'm over the moon excited for the opportunity. After all FPL are providing for me, it's the least I can do!

As I attempt to "get a grip," today, I am delighted to have this opportunity to grow and learn here at FPL. Tomorrow is another day full of meetings with top-notch public relations specialists who are as eager to share with me as I am to absorb from them.