Do you have a go-to person, who has been a Mentor and who you still trust for advice? Laura Evans, CEO, reflects on leadership and mentoring following an article with ex-Manchester United captain, Michael Carrick.
Sir Alex Ferguson retired nearly 10 years ago but Michael Carrick, who was himself a brilliant leader and had a sound head for decisions as our club captain, still asked him for advice before accepting his new managerial role at Middlesbrough.
My Headteacher was a huge United fan too. I was Head Girl at secondary school and he always used to say to me in our monthly meetings ‘What would Fergie do?’ about a challenging situation that required leadership and/or a difficult decision. Even though it is nearly 25 years ago now, this has very much stayed with me to this day – so much of what he passed on to me has shaped my leadership and people management practice throughout my career.
My Mentor from my early career sadly passed away a few years ago and I really miss his wise counsel, but I’ve never forgotten what he thought me and call on this constantly, particularly in the last few years.
There are a couple of people who are still trusted Mentors to me and I feel very lucky to have them, just as Michael Carrick is very lucky to still have Sir Alex to call on for advice too.
This has also made me reflect on my own practice as a Mentor to others. I really enjoy spending time advising other people, in many ways it honours the memory of those who’ve helped me, as well as passing on my own experience. I can only hope that people are still calling me in 10-20 years!
Laura Evans, CEO 26th October, 2022