This is the first guest post of 2010 and I am pleased to feature Christopher Zaucha. Chris is the co-founder and Vice President/CFO of Innovative Glazing Systems, Inc. a sub-specialty Union contractor in the field of glass and glazing.
Chris has been a member of Board of Trustees of the Institute of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professionals (ICCIFP) since the organization’s inception in 2003 and served as Chairman in 2008-2009. He has authored several articles for CFMA Building Profits and ICCIFP Inside the Institute on issues such as leadership, mentoring, time management, volunteering, social media, and other timely topics and maintains a blog, CFO Insights.
He received a degree of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Villanova University, and holds ICCIFP’s Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) professional designation.
There is a common misconception when discussing mentoring, coaching, supervising, etc.: Too often, the discussion centers on the different opportunities we as leaders have to extend the capacity of others. Instead, the conversation should focus on how extending the capacity of others allow us to extend our own simultaneously. When we share thoughts, experiences, and knowledge with others we receive the same in return, resulting in fresh, new ideas.
Mentoring is often viewed as a one-way street. At times, it is ... but it should not be. In giving of your time to help develop colleagues, you also gain enlightenment. Through your interactions, both parties share different points of view. It is this opportunity to have a fresh perspective that typically lends itself to a proactive environment where ideas are frequently shared and developed. This creates a dynamic relationship and exchange of knowledge between the parties.
Everyone needs to be exposed to new opportunities to develop their capacity. When discussing these with the individuals you mentor, ask them to challenge you to reach greater heights. After all, we did not get where we are today by shying away from the prospect of a challenge. If you truly want to give others the chance to be great and shine, allow them the same chances you were afforded (or those you wish you had been afforded). Exhibit the same willingness to accept opportunities and challenges that they present and your own capacity will be developed.
Developing the capacity of others is a two-way street, an ongoing relationship that results in mutual growth, understanding, and enlightenment. Ultimately, everyone benefits from boundless capacity and the willingness to share ideas and experiences. If given the opportunity to question, challenge, and inspire you, the individuals you mentor will receive confidence and inspiration in return.
Join the conversation:
How have you grown in your own abilities as a result of mentoring others?
What are some other ways that we can make mentoring a two-way street?
