“One of the major outcomes that I’ve received from the Merzad training is centered on assumptions; recognizing, analyzing, and managing them.

I’m not sure if it’s because of age, life experience, or just the length of time I’ve worked with the same people but I’ve come to realize that I bring certain assumptions to the table such as:

• This particular person is going to disrespect me in this meeting just the way she’s done in most of the meetings we’ve had over the years.
• This person is going to take an authoritative stance and reject my ideas during this meeting just as they’ve always done in the past.

However, after attending the Merzad training session which highlighted the topic of “assumptions” and provided some real-world tools and technics for recognizing, analyzing, and managing them, I now try to come to the table with a “clean slate” and assume positive results.

This approach has helped me to be more open and willing to take a chance on others where before I would have been more guarded. I’m hopeful that my new approach will bring about some positive changes in me and allow me to be a change agent in helping others grow in this area as well.

Although this is just one small change, if this training is given to all associates, and everyone makes at least one small change, our company will be all the better for the experience. And subsequently, our clients will benefit from working with a more enlightened, energized, and cohesive team.

The time and effort expended to learn the lessons that Randie and Mimi teach should translate to more positive results on our corporate culture surveys, participant and plan sponsor surveys, and ultimately on our bottom line.

Change is hard. It’s scary at times and oftentimes uncomfortable. But, it’s necessary in order to move forward. Let’s go!