Managers Matter Cohort Two

The selection process was open from August 23 - 31. The group includes a cross-section of experiences, functions, and qualities representative of Utilities and Energy Management (UEM). 

Important Dates

August 23 - 31, 2023	Selection Process Open
August 28, 2023	Information Session
August 31, 2023	Coaching for Impact Orientation
September 18, 2023	Participant Orientation
September 21, 2023	Cohort Two Kickoff
March 7, 2024	Graduation and Presentations
April 2024	Program Debrief

Contact Information

• For questions related to UEM, such as communicating with a supervisor, team coordination, or work schedule, please contact:
  • Jessica Acosta-Barnes, Senior Administrative Associate 
• For questions related to the Managers Matter Program, such as the application process, dates, or curriculum, please contact:
  • Dr. Binta Brown, Director of Talent Development and Learning Strategy

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is eligible to participate in the Managers Matter Program?
  • Participants must currently hold a manager or supervisor title. The program may be expanded in the future to include tracks for technical roles and individual contributors.
• When can I apply or nominate someone?
  • The selection process was open from August 23 – 31, 2023. ​
• How do I apply or nominate someone?
  • ​The nomination and application forms were both available online.
• Who should I nominate?
  • Consider employees as outlined in the Writing Impactful Nominations resource.
• How will Cohort Two be selected?
  • All applications and nominations will be reviewed with the aim to include various experiences, functions, and qualities representative of the participating department/unit. 
• How long is the program?
  • The program will be approximately six months from September 2023 - March 2024. 12 in-person group sessions every two weeks. The two weeks intervals allow participants adequate time to absorb the new knowledge and then experiment and practice. Much like playing an instrument, if you don’t use it, you lose it!
• Will Cohort Two be in-person or virtual?
  • ​All sessions will be in-person.
• Will the program take place during regular work hours?
  • Yes, it is expected that participants will complete group sessions, coaching, and assignments during regular work hours.

Unsure about Applying?

Impostor syndrome is a feeling of fraud and doubt of one’s skills and achievements that prevents people from feeling confident in themselves and their abilities. It can affect anyone; reportedly 70% of people will experience feelings of impostor syndrome in their lifetime. Statistics show it disproportionately affects women, especially women of color.

Strategies to overcome feelings of impostor syndrome:

• Acknowledge your talents and track achievements no matter how small they might seem. This practice helps you acknowledge your contributions and build confidence in your abilities.
• Embrace collective efforts and give credit where it’s due. Avoid diminishing the contributions of others by using words or tactics that dismiss others. Instead, celebrate a sense of shared achievements.
• Intentionally build a network of mentors, colleagues, and friends who uplift you and inspire you. Engage in open conversations with mentors you trust and admire. Sharing your experiences and challenges with a supportive community can provide perspective and encouragement.
• Remember, self-advocacy is about more than advancing in your career. It is about helping others understand how you add value to an organization. Do so confidently.

Research Sources

L. Craig, Are you suffering from imposter syndrome?, American Psychological Association, 2018

G. Gramont, The confidence gap: How imposter syndrome disproportionately affects women. TorchLight Hire, 2022

S. Nance-Nash, Why Imposter Syndrome hits women and women of colour harder, BBC Worklife, 2020

Twilio, How to Advocate for Yourself and Your Work, Twilio Blog, 2020