Things moved quite quickly these past few days. Triggered by the event that rumors were starting to float around the office about Leon's potential relocation, we had to act fast.
His Bosses
He had to tell his Director first. His Director has been awesome about giving him the opportunities that he wants and throughout most of his career, has taken effort to coach him. Every year, even though his Director meets only the top X% of employees for performance and career discussion, Leon is usually included although he isn't often placed in this group.
Needless to say, his Director was shocked. Leon is very good about making his leaders feel good and in control so I believe he managed it very well. His Director had plans for him that would put him in his dream job but...yes, it makes me feel quite guilty and fully empathetic of other dual career couples...
Then he had to tell his Head of department. Unfortunately, the day before, to facilitate making of the urgent appointment, his Head's secretary told his Head that Leon is planning to leave. So for the entire night and morning before their meeting, his Head was extremely puzzled as to why. Leon is passionate about his work and a very commitment team member - showed no symptoms of wanting to resign.
When Leon got to tell him the reason, he was an angel about it - very supportive and offered to write a testimonial for Leon. His service bond - in place because of a high cost course he took earlier in the year - and his departure date were all going to be flexible and accommodating of our move schedule. The nicest part was that his Head told Leon that he has contributed more than enough to the organization and that he deserves this experience...what a boss to have...
His Family
So it was a bit more awkward with the family. Leon gave his sisters a heads-up that we have an announcement to make. Speculations were rife and of course, his parents especially would have been hoping that we're finally pregnant...
Anyway, it went better than expected. He waited for his Mum to sit down first before bursting forth with the news...in English. I had to remind him to translate for his poor Mum. I felt I had to chime in about the opportunity to frame the fact that this is an experience not to be missed.
And today, we'll tell my parents. This will be an easier task. Of course, my sisters knew about it already. Like Leon, they've been with me through the ups and downs of getting to this stage. The challenge will be managing expectations....we'll see.
His Bosses
He had to tell his Director first. His Director has been awesome about giving him the opportunities that he wants and throughout most of his career, has taken effort to coach him. Every year, even though his Director meets only the top X% of employees for performance and career discussion, Leon is usually included although he isn't often placed in this group.
Needless to say, his Director was shocked. Leon is very good about making his leaders feel good and in control so I believe he managed it very well. His Director had plans for him that would put him in his dream job but...yes, it makes me feel quite guilty and fully empathetic of other dual career couples...
Then he had to tell his Head of department. Unfortunately, the day before, to facilitate making of the urgent appointment, his Head's secretary told his Head that Leon is planning to leave. So for the entire night and morning before their meeting, his Head was extremely puzzled as to why. Leon is passionate about his work and a very commitment team member - showed no symptoms of wanting to resign.
When Leon got to tell him the reason, he was an angel about it - very supportive and offered to write a testimonial for Leon. His service bond - in place because of a high cost course he took earlier in the year - and his departure date were all going to be flexible and accommodating of our move schedule. The nicest part was that his Head told Leon that he has contributed more than enough to the organization and that he deserves this experience...what a boss to have...
His Family
So it was a bit more awkward with the family. Leon gave his sisters a heads-up that we have an announcement to make. Speculations were rife and of course, his parents especially would have been hoping that we're finally pregnant...
Anyway, it went better than expected. He waited for his Mum to sit down first before bursting forth with the news...in English. I had to remind him to translate for his poor Mum. I felt I had to chime in about the opportunity to frame the fact that this is an experience not to be missed.
And today, we'll tell my parents. This will be an easier task. Of course, my sisters knew about it already. Like Leon, they've been with me through the ups and downs of getting to this stage. The challenge will be managing expectations....we'll see.
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