Throughout my career I was fortunate to be guided by strong leaders and managers, when I worked on the family farm and in the cannery, while in the army, and throughout my business career. I’ve also worked alongside excellent managers at many of the nonprofits I’ve been involved with, including my years serving on The Nature Conservancy’s Asia Pacific Council.
These were managers who paid attention to every aspect of their organization, worked extremely hard, and treated their staff, clients, partners, and other stakeholders in an ethical and fair manner.
Nothing beats working for excellent, principled managers. It’s one of the most valuable experiences a young, ambitious person can have. If you convey a sincere desire to learn and improve your skills, a good manager will be glad to help you.
- Have you identified managers inside or outside your organization who you think could help guide your career?
- How will you approach them, to seek their counsel?