How do you balance learning and performing in a fast-paced rotational program?

2 Seek feedback and support

Another way to balance learning and performing in a rotational program is to seek feedback and support from various sources. Feedback will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, celebrate your achievements, and address your challenges. Support will help you cope with stress, uncertainty, and change, and provide you with guidance, advice, and resources. You can seek feedback and support from your managers, mentors, peers, coaches, and alumni of the program. You can also create a feedback loop by giving feedback and support to others, which will enhance your relationships and reputation.

3 Manage your time and energy

A fast-paced rotational program can be demanding on your time and energy, especially when you have to juggle multiple projects, deadlines, and expectations. To manage your time and energy effectively, you need to prioritize your tasks, delegate or outsource what you can, and set boundaries and limits. You also need to plan ahead, anticipate potential challenges, and prepare for transitions. Moreover, you need to take care of yourself, by getting enough sleep, exercise, and nutrition, and by engaging in activities that recharge you and make you happy.

4 Learn from every experience

A fast-paced rotational program can be a rich source of learning, if you are open-minded, curious, and reflective. To learn from every experience, you need to embrace challenges, opportunities, and diversity, and seek to understand different perspectives, cultures, and practices. You also need to apply what you learn, by experimenting, testing, and iterating, and by transferring your skills and knowledge to new contexts. Furthermore, you need to document and share what you learn, by keeping a journal, portfolio, or blog, and by presenting your insights and outcomes to others.

5 Build your network

A fast-paced rotational program can be a great way to build your network, both within and outside the organization. A strong network will help you access information, resources, and opportunities, as well as enhance your visibility and credibility. To build your network, you need to network strategically, by identifying and connecting with key stakeholders, influencers, and potential sponsors. You also need to network authentically, by showing interest, appreciation, and value, and by following up and maintaining contact. Additionally, you need to network reciprocally, by offering help, referrals, and endorsements, and by joining or creating communities of practice.

6 Evaluate your progress and direction

A fast-paced rotational program can be a valuable opportunity to evaluate your progress and direction, both during and after the program. Evaluating your progress will help you assess your performance, learning, and impact, as well as identify your gaps, needs, and areas for improvement. Evaluating your direction will help you clarify your interests, passions, and goals, as well as explore your options, opportunities, and pathways. To evaluate your progress and direction, you need to review your SMART goals, feedback, and learning outcomes, and seek career counseling or coaching if needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?