The 3 Reasons I Hired You

I was in conversation the other day with some students during a project management class session, and upon hearing the story behind that quote (the title), they said something along the lines of "Wow Doc! That's really meaningful to us, and will help us greatly in our professional development".

I found that encouraging, and thought I should share it on a larger scale. So, without further ado, here's the story... (to the best of my recollection)

I was in a meeting with my mentor, the organization's CFO (which was very humbling by the way!). We held these meetings monthly. In this particular meeting, I asked about what my long view of professional development should be so that I could continue to bring value to the organization, her, and my evolving career.

She stated "Just remember the three reasons I hired you Eric". She went on "I hired you to do what I don't want to do, what I don't know how to do, or what I don't have time to do". Her message was clear. I do the analysis, the problem identification, the networking, and then bring her my sound recommendations, or courses of action, for her consideration and selection.

As the leader, she made the decisions, and delegated, and developed staff, so she could stay effective and keep the organization on mission; but she couldn't do so unless I did the leg work. She shared the praise though, recognizing me in significant ways every time I was able to come through big for her. All under her guidance the entire time by the way; my success was due to her mentorship. She also taught me '"I" when the team/staff fails, and "they" when they succeed'.

Thus she taught me the invaluable lesson of making my boss' life easier, and the wonderful career impact it could have.