Mentorship

Small business has more ups and downs than a roller coaster. One surprising benefit has been the time I spend working closely with my team. I suppose that sounds silly but what I mean is the time invested into employees - teaching them, learning from them, and collaborating - is time well spent.

The unintended consequence of this company is I have now had the privilege to mentor dozens of young people. And the pleasure has been all mine.

This week we celebrated a team member’s 5th anniversary at JHL. 1/3 of the entire lifespan of the business. Last month another hit year three. More than duration, what makes me the most proud is the growth my employees make, their personal growth and their leadership skills.

It’s a bold, brave decision to join a small business as an employee. It’s not a job, it’s an investment in the business owner. It’s an endorsement of the person and their dream. It’s a commitment. I’m grateful for the incredibly talented, witty and wicked smart team members I’ve had - past and present.

It’s easy to complain about *millennials* (and I do my fair share) but the truth is opening your heart and mind to teaching others and learning from them is the most rewarding part of being a business owner.