Most people see career advancement as a sign of good progress and reward for all their efforts. It usually comes with the unspoken rule of gaining experience and consistent performance. Some may even be asked to be play an 'acting' role prior to their actual appointment.
I have been with Kumon for 2 years and 5 months now. In the first year, I was in the Field Administration where we support centres on administrative and policy matters (just to simplify it). A year later, I was then re-assigned to join the newly formed Centre Set-Up Team, bringing with me the Field Admin experience plus my previous work experience as contributions. We did quite well I must say. But there can always be something better.
And about 5 months ago, I was re-assigned (again) to be part of the Field Development Team where its members are like Consultants/Area Managers. Originally, the plan was for me to help the newly opened centres develop before it is passed on to the actual Area Managers. Beginning of this year, a colleague was tasked to help mentor me and let me learn the ropes of being an Area Manager.
Both of us worked hand in hand, him more than me sometimes, to help 2 centres closely while monitoring the other 12 or so centres through visits and consultations. This plan was to enable me to become a full-fledged Area Manager at the end of 2009.
Somehow, along the way, another colleague was leaving and so I was told that the plan will be brought forward to June/July 2009 for me to take-over that area left vacant by the colleague who left. The always egoistic me remarked that I doubt it'll be a problem and that I looked forward to it. So far so good.
Yesterday, a major news (to me at least) fell on my laps when I realized that I will in fact be asked to lead the area with immediate effect while I continue to learn on the job! My end of year target has been brought forward by a whopping 9 months!!
On reflection of the whole situation, I asked myself why is it turning out this way. How could it be possible for a person to jump into a job that required experience and knowledge within such a short span of time? My superiors mentioned that they believe in my ability and how I will make a strong Area Manager. Too much praise for me that I started to think they may be just patronising me. That they needed someone to do the job and I was the lucky (or unlucky) fool.
I remember vividly how I vehemently rejected even the possible notion of me becoming an Area Manager. And today, 18 Mar 2009, I am made one. It's been a long journey for me. And it'll continue to be one. Only that this time, I can't really see the light at the end of the tunnel.
I am afraid actually. Worried too at how I should handle this situation. That I may not be able to deliver the expectations of the 14 centres under my care. Even though my 'mentor' and superior would be there for me, I know it's a journey I have to go through alone. Have to overcome the challenges and persevere on. A journey that could push me up or force me out.
There's no turning back I guess. All I can do is start taking a small step forward into the darkness, grope my way through until hopefully, I see the light at the end of the tunnel.
