Though statistics vary, a large portion of our workforce
will retire in the coming three to five years. Some say
it's up to 40%. A much smaller work force follows. While
this affects each of us differently, one consistency
remains. Many of our wisest, most experienced, and valued
senior employees in leadership roles will soon be
unavailable on a day-to-day basis. Decisions and direction
that we give little thought to today will not be available
to us. I hear this often: "I never stopped to think of all
that he did. He made it look so easy."
In their hearts, our retiring leaders mean it when they say
"I'll be here for you whenever you need me." Yet experience
proves that these spirited individuals will use the same
brilliance that made them succeed in the first place to
create a new life of freedom and adventure.
There's no time better than the present to capture their
wisdom. Sure, you may have had disagreements with them,
you may not have made the same choices they made or given
up what they gave up, but their depth of knowledge and
perspective surpasses anything you will find in a book.
These leaders and high achievers have specific experience
in your field, with your market, clients, customers,
products and services. They've seen the trends and lived
through up and down markets. All the while they've raised
children, strived to find balance, contributed to your
community and learned from their mistakes.
What prevents us from benefiting from their wisdom?
Ego: "I want to do it my way, create a new path! I know I
can do it better." Humility: "Why would he make time for
me? He's a busy, busy man." Ignorance: "I have nothing to
learn from her; things are different now."
You needn't emulate these insightful individuals - just
learn from their breadth of knowledge and experience.
Think of what you might learn from them. Write down three
to five questions.
Be patient and specific in requesting a meeting. State
what you wish to accomplish and how much time you desire.
For example, can your interview take place over the phone
or in person? If it's going to be in-person, do they
prefer that you come to their office or meet at a
convenient location?
If you set a timeline, stick to it. Fifteen minute
meetings can easily slip into 30-minute conversations.
While this may be enjoyable for you, it may leave a sense
of lack of respect with the other individual who will have
been forced to cut you off.
There is so much wisdom available to you today that simply
may not be there tomorrow when your wise, senior
employees/leaders retire. Make it a week to expand your
concept of what is available to you -and then, act upon it.
Think also where you might share your wisdom with others.
Have a great week and enjoy your discoveries.
----------------------------------------------------
For the sake of keeping your career fresh and on track,
would you like to enjoy a weekly shot-in-the-arm from
Master Certified Coach Ann Golden Eglé? You can sign
up for her Success Thought of the Week at
http://www.gvsuccesscoaching.com .
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