Our parents ingrained this message in our heads while growing up: Don’t forget to look both ways when crossing the street!
Let’s remember to use this lesson in our business lives.
We’re eager to get ahead. We spend a lot of time looking forward. How do we move up the corporate ladder? Can I have a mentor who will guide me towards the right path? Who’s helping me?
Once we succeed and get a promotion or new opportunity, it doesn’t stop there. We’re then focused on how we get to the next rung.
But what about those below us? Are you looking backwards in their direction and giving back? All of a sudden, you are the person they are looking up to for help, regardless if you realize it or not.
This past week, I was a guest speaker for an Emerging Leader program, speaking to 100 global leaders about Business Leadership. These folks were a special group, nominated by their business units, and then hand-picked due to high performance and potential. Topics included Strategy & Planning, Results Accountability, and Financial Management, as well as answering many questions about leadership and personal experiences.
When requests for speakers went out, most people averted their virtual eyes and tried to look busy, reminiscent of high school where you prayed the teacher didn’t call on you. Public speaking is intimidating enough let alone having to put together an accompanying slide deck.
I immediately raised my hand and volunteered. What a fantastic opportunity to share what I’ve learned and been taught by others along the way. Sure, there was some work involved putting it together, but the payoff was immense and beyond any expectations I had. The participants were eager to learn, asked a ton of great questions, and many connected with me afterwards. In fact, one person specifically requested if I would be her mentor (to which I happily and humbly accepted).
You have more to give back than you realize. Reach out to a group or reach out to one person. Make yourself available.
Looking back is as rewarding as looking forward. Remember to look both ways!