We had a guest speaker in class and doing so reminds me of the importance of outside voices. Our speaker is an innovation manager for a local manufacturing firm, and I couldn’t have scripted her conversation to more clearly articulate the principles we have been discussing. She validated most things we have covered and gave the students an understanding of how the theories, readings, and exercises from class are applied in “the real world.”
It’s always nice when, as a teacher, I learn from class, too. The same can be true in your organization by inviting others in — or going to them — to learn about your work from a different perspective. Ask questions to understand how what you offer is being used or what gaps exist. Learn what is practical and what is fluff. See how different people apply the tools you supply and what value they get from them.
It’s not just the classroom that can benefit from a guest speaker. Be intentional with your invitations and learn from others who are often so generous in sharing their wisdom.
