New Employee Perspective

By Alyssa Meller, MA, Director of Operations

When asked to write a blog post on my first six months at The Center, I said “Sure! What’s a blog and how do I do that?” I’m not sure that is something a person wants to hear from the new Director of Operations, but this is my first shot at blogging, and I want to get it right.

All kidding aside, I love working at The Center. The first six months have flown by. Each time I think I have my feet under me, ready to tackle the day, something different jumps up, and I’m learning something new. I wouldn’t change that at all. It is how I learn and what I like and thrive on.

Everyone at The Center has been supportive and helped make my transition into this organization go as smoothly as possible. The patience with my asking of many, many questions not once, but often a couple of times, amazes me.  Each person has their own style and unique qualities, and I value that. I find it impressive how The Center’s culture respects each person’s skills and experiences and supports their involvement to further not only the goals of each program but The Center’s mission as a whole.

During the interview process I was asked by a board member what I thought would be the most difficult thing for me if I was hired for this position. I responded, “Allowing myself the patience and time to learn my role, the organization’s style and how to work within the organization’s culture.” Now, I probably didn’t say it that eloquently, but it was what I meant and tried to portray. And I can say allowing myself the time to learn the ropes, the processes and how and when to interact has been my biggest challenge to date. I like to get it right the first time, and that doesn’t always happen when you are new to a position and organization.

As I continue in my role and get out and about, I look forward to meeting and working with each of you, The Center’s partners and friends. I am beginning to understand the depth and breadth of our involvement in sustaining and improving rural health care, not only in Minnesota but nationwide, and I feel honored to be a part of that.