Five minutes with Dennis E. Gilbert – President, Appreciative Strategies, LLC.
[Considering hiring a consultant or trainer? What should you ask? The exchange provided below is a demonstration. The contents of this question and answer session are real, however it has not occurred as an actual interview.]
Question: Since we are considering hiring you to provide leadership training could you tell us what your experience has been in leadership positions including a rough headcount and dollars associated with the operation?
Dennis: I have managed many different people in many different situations for over 20 years. I always prefer to describe my background in two sectors, for-profit organizations and non-profit organizations.
In a for-profit organization I directly supervised 12 professional directors and managers with a total number of full-time employees under my supervision at somewhere around 80 people. In that environment we had light manufacturing, distribution, and sales. The business operated 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Annual revenues for that business were around $33 to $35 million. I served that organization as the General Manager for four years and was the highest ranking full-time employee on staff. An investment group served as the top level leadership. The last full year I was with the organization we achieved numerous awards and outstanding benchmark positioning within the industry. That year we also received the Blue Chip Enterprise award for outstanding leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and organization improvement under adverse conditions.
After leaving that organization I spent over six years in a non-profit institution of higher education. I served this institution as a professional director and provided leadership in non-credit continuing education. There I had seven direct reports and the total number of full-time employees under my supervision was approximately 20. Annual funds under management were approximately $6 million.
This combination of hands-on experience provides an excellent foundation of skills to deliver the highest quality in both consulting and training for your organization.
Question: What is your educational background?
Dennis: I have three degrees from very reputable institutions. I have a Master of Science degree in Workforce Education and Development, a Bachelor of Science degree in Technology Management, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Science. My Master of Science degree is from the Pennsylvania State University, main campus at University Park, Pennsylvania. The year that I obtained my degree this College was recognized as number one in the nation for this area of study. Ohio State University ranked second; it has been an unspoken battle between the two Universities for years in this discipline.
Question: What about a background check? Can we have at least three references?
Dennis: I am very happy you asked about references, it demonstrates your thoroughness and desire for the best. I can provide references from previous employers as well as organizations that I have trained or provided consulting services. I will provide you with several references in three different areas.
The first is previous supervisors or employers. These individuals are the most commonly provided reference. Second, I will provide you with several subordinates. These of course are persons who have reported to me. They are important to truly demonstrate leadership talent. Third, I will provide references of other organizations that I have trained. This list should provide you with enough background to thoroughly understand my abilities and make you feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
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