Rather, he was constantly out in the field, speaking with employees, customers, and community
Leaders to understand the major concerns, problems, and opportunities in their day-to-day
Work and to determine the latest trends in the marketplace. He then used this information
To make adjustments in terms of how he ran the company and how SHAMBAUGH & Son could
Reinvent itself to become and remain a leader in the building industry. I learned from my father’s
Example that you can’t wait for someone to give you the instruction booklet. You have to take
The initiative, roll up your sleeves, be open to listening, and constantly look at ways to stay on top
Of your game while you are consistently bringing value to others. In many ways, my father has been my lifelong mentor.
And I’ve had many other mentors along the way. Some I’ve learned simply by observing them in action,
Others have been sources of information and insight, and many have given me feedback that has been
Invaluable. Some have been older than I, like my father, and some have been younger, like the
23-year-old who taught me all about social networking. Some have been employees in my organization,
,and others have been customers or even competitors. The one thing they all had in common is that they all had something to teach me.
And finally, if you don’t already have your own personal “board of director,” now is a good time to begin
Recruiting one. The people on it are individuals whom you trust and