I think how you reach back is just as important, if not more important, than how you move forward.
Guidance, mentorship, representation, words of wisdom — all things that can really change the trajectory of someone’s career, before we even speak about the technical, skill set side of someone’s journey. Sometimes, the most talented people just need to see someone relatable or who looks like them doing what they strive to do for themselves.
It’s funny — I went to a Black In Tech networking event last night, thinking I’d spend most of my time learning more about the industry, new tools on the horizon, etc. I actually spent most of my time talking to younger tech associates and other people new to the industry, sharing ways to tackle their goals and drafting up recommendation notes and I couldn’t have been HAPPIER. I didn’t have any real guidance breaking into the industry, but I’m trying to be the change I wanna see.
I also made sure I told them that everything I’ve done in the last 15 years almost, I’ll do everything in my power to coach them so they can do it in 7.
Everything I’ve done in 10, they can do in 5.
Everything I did in 5, they can do in 2.
What’s the point of all of this if we aren’t making it easier for the next wave coming through? Let’s help them make more impact even quicker than we can and could ever imagine.
Answer those DMs, respond to those emails, accept those requests and let’s reach back a little more whenever we can. 🤝🏾
#techmanagement #guidance #mentorship
Internal Communications Director at AARP
1moWhat a great success story! Volunteering as a StreetWise mentor has been one of my most rewarding experiences.