During my career with United Technologies Corporation, I have had exceptional relationships as both a mentor and a mentee. Whether formal or informal, these relationships have given me valuable experiences and insights that have allowed me to grow and advance in a company that offers tremendous opportunities and wonderful challenges. From these experiences, I have gleaned several key lessons that have prepared me well for the business world. I have included some of the lessons below:
- Fully understand your customers’ requirements. We have jobs only because we have customers, and everyone has a customer. Ask them what they want, delivery our product or service on time, and make sure it meets or exceeds their expectations.
- Continually improve your processes and performance. Distinguish yourself and your group by striving for excellence. You’ll satisfy your customers, and you’ll find tremendous personal satisfaction along the way.
- Know your business. Understand your product, your market, your competition and how your organization supports and advances business imperatives. Then work together with others in the organization and drive for success.
- Hire people better than yourself. It makes your job much, much easier and allows you to focus on strategic initiatives. Having top talent allows organizations to thrive.
- Seek out and accept challenging roles and develop a portfolio of accomplishments. Achieving results is valued and will position you for greater responsibility. Don’t ever underestimate what you can accomplish and have confidence in your ability to move to new and exciting opportunities.
- Enjoy what you do. In business, we spend the majority of our day at work. Be sure to do something you absolutely love, be committed to continual growth and learning, and foster a culture that encourages a positive working environment.
- Remember that life exists well beyond work, and prioritize accordingly. There is no one single formula for achieving work life balance. You must be prepared, create a strong support network, prioritize, communicate openly, and be flexible.
The foundation for theses even valuable lessons was built through my mentoring relationships, and has formed the basis of how I approach work each and every day.