By Sunny Simon
I am a huge fan of the TV program “The Voice” for two reasons. I enjoy the entertainment but more importantly, I’m wild about the mentoring concept. If you are not familiar with the program, four top vocalists along with guest celebrities coach and mentor a wannabe rising star. Watching the contestants develop and grow from week to week warms my heart.
On the night of the finale, orchestrated into a huge musical extravaganza, a winner is selected. This season each of the four finalists sang a duet with a megastar. Damien, an incredible singer-contestant who works as a TSA agent was paired up with Grammy and Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson. It was after a great performance I felt a stabbing pain of disappointment. Jennifer gave Damien a brief hug lasting about a nano-second then stood alone absorbing the applause as if it were a one woman show. I offer my apologies to Ms. Hudson if the cameras missed a shot where she openly shared the spotlight with the man who gave an equally amazing performance.
Ever had a boss or colleague take full credit for an idea that saved the company money or an innovative process you implemented? Not only does it disappoint, you immediately lose respect for the individual who robbed you of a well deserved nod. When we act selfishly and trip over our own egos by refusing to share the limelight, we fail as role models. Lavishing praise on those coming up through the ranks bolsters confidence and inspires even greater achievement.
My friend Irma, a vice president at a national security services corporation, never passes up an opportunity to applaud a job well done. Often while dining in a restaurant or completing a hotel stay, my friend will go beyond publicly praising an individual who impressed her. Irma seeks out the manager to talk about the excellent service she received from his or her team member. She also tips her hat to the department head for making a great hire. When Irma does this, everybody wins.
Whether you are a first line supervisor, a department manager, a CEO or a superstar, you have an obligation to help others grow. Do your best to coach and mentor. Spend time catching others doing things right. On the flip side, when someone drops the ball step up and shoulder more than your share of the blame. And when that spotlight shines down illuminating your achievements do not stand alone. Step aside and let the light bounce off those who also deserve credit.
Warm holiday wishes are sent from Sunny Simon, owner of Raise the Bar High Life and Career Coaching. More about Sunny at www.raisethebarhigh.com
