Adaptive leadership, at its core, centers on aiding individuals in adjusting to ever-evolving situations. By
ensuring preparedness and nurturing a spirit of adaptability, adaptive leaders bolster teams to face and
conquer the tumultuous waves of change. Reflecting on my personal journey, I know of one key
moment when I was an adaptive leader.
Upon the arrival of an associate designer, fresh-faced and eager to make their mark in the world's
largest company, I saw a bit of myself. This colossal organization, with its daunting corporate culture,
bristled with the challenges of political maneuvering, siloed teams, and a labyrinthine bureaucracy. For
many designers, especially those fresh out of school or transitioning from the realm of graphic design,
stepping into the ring of corporate UX design can be crushing. Their passion for design, often viewed
through an artistic lens, clashes with the reality that UX design, in this setting, leans more towards
science than art. While technical prowess here is a given, the real game-changer lies in honing
interpersonal skills, which often sets apart those who really thrive in the space.
It was in this lens that I saw an opportunity to make a difference. With memories of my own entry into
the corporate world, where I once wished I had someone to help me, I stepped into the shoes of a
mentor for this budding designer. While my managerial responsibilities persisted, I consciously chose to
be more than just a supervisor. I became the bridge that connected fresh ideas to the seasoned
traditions of the corporate world. Every hurdle, be it understanding procedural delays or handling
excessive criticism, became a teachable moment. I strived to distill the complexities of the corporate
mechanism, guiding the designer on nuances like how to get executives to respond, or navigating the
feedback maze.
In this journey, I had the privilege of being the manager I once yearned for, adopting a tailored approach
for this new talent. The essence of adaptive leadership was manifested in every interaction, where
encouragement and skill development went hand in hand. However, self-reflection brings forth an area
of potential enhancement. My own journey in the corporate realm is ongoing, and with each
experience, my reservoir of knowledge deepens. The more I learn, the more equipped I'll be to swiftly
guide young designers through the corporate quagmire.
In conclusion, the strengths I bring to the table lie in my empathetic approach, my dedication to
mentoring, and my commitment to continuous learning. The horizon ahead beckons with opportunities
for growth, and with added experience, I aim to further refine my adaptive leadership skills, ensuring
that every young designer I mentor finds their path in the corporate wilderness.
