Ni Hao! IMLPs in China

                                                                                Just passed one month since tIMLPs on the Great Wall of Chinahe latest class of 3^rd and 4^th rotation IMLPs are back from the 3-week adventure known as Senior Bootcamp. Many came back laden with Chinese straw hats and hand-painted chopsticks -- but what other things are these IMLPs bringing back to their new rotations?

If nothing else, they surely got training! Week one was all about business strategy, complete with a competitive business simulation game. Week two built on those concepts and forced the IMLPs to go one step farther in planning a strategy across different functions within a business. Week three dug even deeper, requiring IMLPs to develop BI reports to answer key business questions. From broad strategy to detailed technology, the IMLPs covered a lot of ground in terms of training, and will bring new strategic insight and technical know-how back to their businesses.

However, the IMLPs were not just busy during business hours. Weekends and evenings were jam-packed with traditional Chinese dinners, shopping at various markets, and even a trip to Beijing! In addition to obtaining piles of souvenirs, the IMLPs learned a lot about how to navigate a different country, a different language, and a different culture. Experiencing Chinese traditions allowed IMLPs to understand more about the different viewpoints of fellow employees from other countries, and think about how GE has to position itself differently around the globe.

Outside the classes and activities, it was the opportunity to meet new people and re-establish old friendships that really made senior bootcamp exciting. With two bootcamp classes together, there was a lot of networking going on just between the IMLPs. In addition, several speakers and reviewers came in from the GE China team, and a session was put on by several members of the Corporate Audit Staff. The connections made during their time in China will serve the IMLPs well throughout their careers.

Beyond learning how to eat rice with chopsticks, the recent graduates of Senior Bootcamp have also developed strategic thinking, cultural perspective, and a global network. With these experiences, they are ready to tackle their new rotations and future careers.