What I’ve learned from starting fresh and not knowing anybody on 3 different continents — ‘Networking’ has become one of those gag words. There’s a dirty stigma associated with the concept: a stigma that implies networking is only for MLM ghouls or people who have nothing to give and everything to ask. Sometimes, however, networking is borne out of necessity. In the last 5 years…

4 ways for new managers to overcome imposter syndrome and win team support — It could be that the term “imposter syndrome” was designed for the points in time when we first become leaders. I can’t keep a pot plant alive but, hey, the world deemed it okay for me to manage teams of high achievers. …

Are you the “that’s not my job” guy in your office? Experience has taught me that there are two types of people in the world: - Those who fetch/make coffee for others; and - Those who don’t. In my first year as an associate, it was customary (or so they told…

How to address your blind spots to enjoy your role as a leader — Three things in life are certain: Death Taxes, and The fact that, if you’ve worked in a large organization, you’re used to getting a ton of downward feedback from your managers and bosses. Many of us are accustomed to receiving downward feedback, despite the racing pulse and sweaty palms we…

Perspectives of a boring accountant making sense of a world in which unicorns exist — I’m embarrassed to say that, until a few weeks ago, my knowledge of the VC industry was almost entirely based on HBO’s Silicon Valley. …

Getting Rid of the Mental Health Stigma One Conversation at a Time Imagine: you’re a consultant who’s been working on a real tough engagement for the last few weeks. There have been long nights and weekend work. On more than one occasion you’ve been admonished by your manager, your client…

Love the perspective here, Chad! In a leadership capacity, I make a point of obtaining as much anonymous upward and peer feedback as I can. It means a lot more to me than the downward feedback I get from a boss and helps me better identify blind spots. After all, what good is great downward feedback if everyone hates working with you?