Managing the Matrix: The Secret to Surviving and Thriving in Your Organization

2

Laying the Cards on the Table

Roshan came back with the coffee and Johann, who had been making small talk, now turned his full attention to Debra's professional situation. Pulling his seat forward slightly, he gave his card to Debra who looked at it carefully before handing him her own. Pleasantries over, Johann got straight to business, admitting “I'm afraid I don't know as much about you as I would like as this has all happened rather quickly.”

“Yes,” said Debra.

Johann nodded as she stopped speaking. Although she was perfectly polite, did he detect a note of not exactly apathy but certainly a lack of enthusiasm? Maybe even hostility? He decided to probe a little further.

“So tell me a little bit about yourself and why you're here.”

Debra took a deep breath. “Well, I'm 32 years old. I have an MBA. I've been promoted four times in six years and I moved to this company eight months ago when I was made an offer I couldn't refuse.” She stopped. “It wasn't just the money although I won't lie the package was very attractive and, of course, it's a prestigious organization; but it was also the chance for growth and development that I was shown.”

Johann took a chance, “And do you feel, now, that you made the right decision?”

The hesitation was obvious as Debra's mouth opened slightly.

Johann interjected: “I'm sorry. I should have been clear up front on confidentiality. Assuming you don't tell me anything illegal or against the company's rules, everything we say in here is completely ...