“‘Well, I don’t know about you guys, but I don’t feel connected to what’s going on outside of finance. Sometimes I feel like a consultant myself. At other companies where I’ve worked, I’ve always been more involved in sales and operations, and right now, I feel isolated in my own area.” -Jan in The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

The concept of being a “consultant” is sexy and cool, but it lacks the foundation of being part of the team. Sure, you solve problems but it feels as if it’s playing more to status & ego than anything else. So if I’m a “consulant” for a tech company, acting as a Community Manager where my job is to bring everyone together, isn’t it ironic that the nature of my role keeps me detached from the whole of the company? Doesn’t it work against my greater purpose?

At the company, perhaps I should know what’s going on in all arms of my department, rather than just my silo of Community. That way I can align my effort & goals to the greater “team.”

JK