Shawna Simcik //April 2, 2014//
Several months ago, I received a jury summons in the mail, and the proverbial eye roll ensued. “How can I get out of this?” was the first thought that ran through my mind. After a very honest round of jury selections, I was chosen for a civil case that would keep me out of the office for five days.
After coming to peace with my frustration, I found myself engulfed in the responsibility that had been bestowed upon me. Being swept away for a week allowed me to reflect on five critical skills that impact the success of an individual in a career transition.
I found a lot more than 5 percent during my week of jury duty. I learned about new technology, civil engineering, mathematics and much more. I was able to check my prejudices and assumptions at the door each morning and listen intently, muddling through facts, opinions, data and arguments. I also made a few new friends from my fellow jury members. So next time you are called for jury duty, see it as an opportunity to practice these five critical career skills.