It was a GREAT experience being at the GROW workshop. The Workshop has definitely helped me GROW as a Colleague, a Mom, a Wife, a Daughter and overall as a Person in several ways.
Firstly, I loved the fact that I got to meet people from various other departments of Guidewire which would not have been easy otherwise. It helped me to get to know my colleagues well enough to develop a bond with them, which in turn strengthened my bond with Guidewire as a company and made me feel like I was an integral part of it. Being a newbie at Guidewire, it was important to gain that confidence. The relationships I built with my co-workers made me comfortable at my work place and makes me want to stay here longer.
Secondly, the Content and structure of the program is so well designed that it does not make you feel like you are in a “workshop workshop”. It’s filled with so many fun activities and games that I initially hesitated, but at the end was proud of what I could do and accomplish.
Emphasis on Guidewire’s core values was through fun activities. It made me realize how well our core values are chosen, how it has contributed to our growth so far and how it makes our workplace a pleasant and fun environment to be in.
GROW also helped me to truly listen to everyone around me. I usually listen to my colleagues at work, but tend to take my family (kids, husband , parents) for granted. I learned how important active listening is and that helped me discover many aspects of my kids which are very important. I always thought I was a good mom, but I must agree that the workshop has made me a better Mom. I also gained good insight into effective communication and collaboration which again is a great skill to possess to be successful not only at work but in life.
Last but not the least, David is such an amazing teacher and mentor. He creates this wonderful, encouraging environment that makes me absolutely comfortable to be in. I call him a mentor, because I can walk up to him anytime for suggestions and advice on topics discussed during the workshop and he is always so welcoming.
On the whole I would like to say that I’m so glad I took the workshop and encourage everyone to give it a try.