Radu Bostan completed UVM’s Leadership and Management Certificate Program in 2013. An experienced technology consultant with more than a decade of experience in retail and sales, Bostan earned his undergraduate degree and Master of Business Administration in the Republic of Moldova before coming to the United States 10 years ago.
UVM Outreach talked to Bostan about the challenges and rewards of training for a leadership position.
Why did you enroll in the UVM Leadership and Management Program?
I reached a moment when I wanted to challenge myself and my comfort zone at work and pursue a managerial path in my career. The Leadership and Management program offered me the knowledge and tools to improve my skills and get on the right path. My goal during the next five years is to take more responsibility and prepare myself for an executive position.
You mentioned that the Leadership and Management program helped give you the push to take on more leadership roles. How do you personally work on improving and educating yourself to be the best leader you can be?
I’m constantly taking the available courses offered for professional development by the company I work for (this helps you get you to know the ins and outs of the corporate culture), and also I take online courses on management, negotiations, and interpersonal skills.
Tell us about the work you’re doing at the Vermont Employment Agency.
The Vermont Employment Agency is a local, growing business that helps employees match their talent to the right job, while helping businesses saving time and money finding the right solutions for their needs. I’ve been advising the Agency in setting up a new location in St. Albans that will cover the Northern Vermont and Plattsburgh, N.Y., area, in addition to the existing branch in South Burlington.
What are some of the challenges and rewards of project management?
With regard to leadership and management, I’d say that being a leader is itself a challenge. While one needs to address external challenges by solving problems and dealing with crises, a project manager needs to keep up team spirit, overcome his or her internal limitations, such as fear, insecurity, and impatience. In the end, I believe it’s a constant process of improving and educating yourself so that you can better serve your team and help the organization reach its goals, which to me is the biggest reward.
How has the UVM Leadership and Management Certificate Program helped you professionally?
While I’m still working my way toward the career goals I’ve set for myself, the program has provided me a good initial push. I have confidently undertaken more leadership roles at my previous job, and I feel more prepared in my current position, which requires leadership skills.
What do you think it takes to succeed at project management? What are some of the pitfalls of project management if you don’t have proper training?
Being a leader, confidence is the key, but one should always be self-critical and aware of the circumstances. As a leader, I have found that being proactive, creative, objective, and collaborative very helpful in my role. In the relationship with the team that I manage, I always listen actively and seek feedback so that I can make an informed decision and feel confident about it.
Some might think they have leadership skills in their blood, but training is key. It will structure your knowledge and direct your strategies when dealing with different and difficult situations. Learning from others’ experience is a shortcut to your own success.
