Career Path
Proven Results
Demonstrating consistent and superior results is essential for an individual to be considered for future job opportunities. We take a long-term view of performance. Consistency is important. We look for a track record of sustained successes rather than unpredictable highs and lows. This does not mean achieving results at any cost. We value trust, respect, fairness, teamwork and results that create a lasting impact. Managers must be able to attract, retain and develop the very best talent. This is a significant part of our expectations
Knowing Our Business
We expect employees to develop expertise in a given functional area; yet, it is also critically important that managers develop a broader knowledge of how we make, sell and deliver our products. We expect all managers to seek out opportunities and experiences that will enhance their understanding of our markets and front-line work. Associates who fully understand what drives our businesses will make better business decisions. In order to move into more senior roles, you need to demonstrate a combination of strong functional skills and broad business understanding.
Critical Experience
Discussions about an individual's potential career move includes an assessment of his or her past experiences and the types of new experiences needed for further career development. Certain jobs and roles require a specific set of prior experiences. It is difficult to imagine selecting a Vice President of Sales, for example, who has had little front line experience in his or her career.
Special projects and short-term assignments all contribute to an employee's depth of experiences in building his or her capabilities. It’s important to seek out these new, challenging experiences to contribute to your overall growth.
Building relationships with others throughout the organization (e.g., functionally, cross-functionally) provides you with fresh insights and exposure to other talent. Learning first-hand about the challenges other employees face will increase your depth of knowledge within the organization.
Long Term Growth
While it is difficult to predict the timing of specific opportunities, guidelines to consider include:
- Think about experiences that will stretch your career the most
- Be flexible – the more flexible you are, the wider range of opportunities will be made available to you
- Be patient – don't impose unrealistic expectations on titles or timing
- Remember that a career is a long-term journey – don't make rash moves
- Ensure a new opportunity is consistent with your personal goals and provides you with the opportunity to learn or demonstrate something new
- Build for the long term
