759. Let Them Pick Your Brain

There is often advice given to leaders that they need to "protect their time" and that they should only attend "curated events" as to not have to be bombarded by people wanting advice, etc... Sometimes people ask if they can "pick your brain" and many people get mad as they see it as someone just wanting "free consulting". But instead of being up off when someone wants your advice... how about reframing their request into a giant compliment. Think about it, if you find someone mediocre (or worse)....do you ask them for advice? We only ask to "pick the brain" of someone we admire. Plus, if you are a leader, you have to be active in your community. A community can be geographic or an industry... but if you see yourself as a leader, and yet you hide from the people you claim to lead, then you are not really a leader. A true leader cannot lead from behind an office door or while sipping bourbon from their pool. Real leaders are in the arena. Ask yourself...."when is the last time I really attended an industry or community event where I was not the speaker or it was sponsored by my company?". If you are not sure, then start getting engaged. Either locally or with your industry trade group. Be the one who shows up and is willing to mentor and guide others. It is probably true that many people were there for you to share advice, be a mentor, or have their "brain picked" when you were up and coming in your career. The time has come to make sure you are returning that favor to the next generation. This does NOT mean you have to attend everything (you are too busy), but make sure one of your weekly / monthly activities is an open event and show up just to be supportive of the greater community. Leaders must lead by example and people are hungry for community these days! ************* Thom Singer is a keynote speaker who shares a message of community, collaboration, and conversations. The more we engage now, the more opportunities come our way in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices