Learning from others is critical to success
There is no such thing a leader who was born perfect, no, we all learn from the people around us from an early age and model our own skills after others. Sure, some people are born with natural charm and intelligence, but even those skills are refined over the years.
So how does one become a sponge in a competitive corporate environment, or in a lonely entrepreneurial environment? Deeon Brown, Marketing Manager at DailySteals attributes his own success to his trusted friends and colleagues, yet acknowledges that not all advice is good advice. “It takes time to learn how to distinguish the good from the bad.”
In his own words below, Brown offers the following tips based on how he has focused on learning from others:
1. Consider your surroundings
Look to your team as a source of growth and inspiration. I look at new additions to my team as an extension of the company’s knowledge base, and I try to stay open to each unique perspective, from the youngest to the oldest person on the team. Communication is key.
2. Listen to another generation
Let your role models to help you. I’m a big believer in listening to those who have more life experience than you do. They may be a part of different generation, but things are more similar than you’d expect. Businesses come and go, but people never change.
3. Ask the right questions
When seeking help, remember to stick to the specifics. If your question is too broad, people will only say what they think you want to hear.
4. A special note about social media
Track online conversations – but don’t get too caught up in them. In today’s business world, social media plays a key role in building relationships and acquiring new information. Stay updated, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Remember that actions speak louder than words.
5. Shiny object syndrome
Maintain focus and balance. In the tech industry, everyone is constantly chasing after the “next big thing”. It’s important to pay attention to the ideas of others’, without letting it discredit what you and your team is working on. You can only tackle one mountain at a time.
6. Set aside time to think things over
It’s important to take time to remember who you are, and the easiest way to do that is to focus on what you love to do. Whether you spend this time out in nature or at the gym, take a moment each day to evaluate yourself honestly and openly. It’s hard to set aside that kind of time for yourself, but trust me, it’s worth it.
