IMLP and the “special snowflake” theory

Have you ever noticed that whenever you are part of a selected group of people, you tend to feel like you are special? After all, if you were chosen, it means that you have the skills, characteristics, etc. required to be part of that group.

When it comes to the IMLP, this is no different. You enter the program because you meet the desired skillset and behavior, and are considered to be someone with the potential to become a GE Leader. But what does being special really mean?

Some people who apply for (and join) leadership programs tend to think that getting into a program is the only thing that they had to do. From that point on, they are like “special snowflakes.” Suddenly, because they were chosen, they “know it all,” and after two years of being on program (on average, depending on the company and program), they will become the “Master Manager Plus of All Things.” They want everyone to know who they are, to feel recognized just because of their position, and to be looked by others like “Wow, look at that person, he/she is a leadership program, how cool!” Here in Brazil, I have seen this happen sometimes. Have you ever seen it where you live as well?

This pitfall can lead to a misunderstanding of what a leadership program is about.

At GE, the IMLP program – no matter where in the world – is intended to accelerate the career and learning path of those who have potential, not turn them into “monsters” after two years. The four different rotations will expose you to a wide variety of topics, people, styles, and technologies. Thus, after the program, you can be prepared to take any assignment or role, because you have developed (or enhanced) your ability to learn fast, interact with others, and generate results.

And how do these abilities get developed? That’s the part where the word "special" can fit, and here are some examples (you can check details here):

• Two live boot camps with colleagues and trainers all across the board, to connect, share experiences, and build networks among the hundreds of program members;
• A focused curriculum with lots of trainings, to make sure every IMLP can leverage the same knowledge base to work on their assignments;
• Exposure to senior leaders who provide mentoring and help decrease the learning curve.

What I am trying to point out here is that—as Tyler Durden mentions in "Fight Club" (IMDb, 1999)—there is no such thing as a “special snowflake.” It is clear that the IMLP is much respected and you will receive special attention. But, because you are an IMLP, people will not carry you in their arms, be soft and gentle all the time, and give you all the answers. You would not need any potential for this, right?

The IMLP is your chance to get challenged and to be moved every six months to live through a new experience. And then, when rolling off program, you will have gone through so many different things that you are able to take and lead any challenge.

If this is what you are looking for, then GE is the best place you can be!