I had the opportunity to meet an MBA class from the Talent Management program this past week at Pepperdine Malibu campus. Apparently this is a new one year MBA program within the Graziadio Business School that is focused on talent management. The students come with experience in HR. They have an impressive curiosity and point of view around talent and what it takes to engage people today. They are engaged and enthusiastic about the new world of work.
They are redefining success for themselves and no doubt will challenge the status quo. That is refreshing. If you have not met any of the Pepperdine grads - take the time to do so! Some are unconventional, however, and that is what was exciting.
Professor Jack Gregg asked me to speak to the class and knowing Jack for so many years and respecting his passion for learning, I accepted and really enjoyed the experience. We discussed the "New Take on Talent" and how that is playing out in work, workers and the workplace of the future. Specifically I shared perspective and data on engagement and how that is changing with many driving forces in the business and with what talent wants now. I shared real examples of what we are seeing in progressive organizations and how the employee experience is driving change.
They asked great questions and were energized with our discussion about where new work is happening in the next few years and how they can redefine that for themselves.
Following the presentation several students introduced themselves and expressed interest in internships for the summer. This is part of the requirement for their graduation. What a great way to meet new grads with new ideas. Upon returning to my office later that day (yes, it was a long drive) there were many linkedin requests from the students. They were personalized and thoughtful. Congrats to them for using the concept of "tailoring" your message to a new connection. Check out this program. More important is to meet an MBA or graduating student who expresses interest in talent and talent managing. They have redefined success and we can all learn from this.