It's All About Trust
Dean Nelson
Technology Executive, Board Member, Advisor, Investor, Advocate, Philanthropist.
I came across this TED talk from Simon Sinek. It resonated with me on so many levels I just had to share my perspective.
One of the most profound compliments I received in my career was from a former colleague, Joshua Teague. In 2001 we worked together at a startup company called Allegro Networks based in San Jose. After working insane hours together, he asked if I had ever been in the military. When I said I had not, he smiled and made this statement. "Well Dean, I would choose to be in a foxhole with you." I laughed and asked what he meant. Josh explained that in the military, your life is literally in the hands of the soldier next to you. You have to trust that person with your life. He went on to say that if he had to choose someone to be with when under fire, it would be me. Wow...
After watching this video, I found myself listing the leaders in my career that I trusted. The ones that made me feel safe. The ones that unlocked my potential and gave me the opportunity to become better. The ones that were also there in tough times; when I was too attached to something, missing the bigger picture, being stubborn, making mistakes or just plain wrong. They had my back. They had my best intentions in mind, They cared about "me". There was a relationship that mattered to them. They chose to be in the foxhole with me, providing cover fire.
In my career and in my personal life I strive to built relationships that matter. Ones built on trust. My heartfelt thanks to those who have returned that trust me. I've got your six. :-)
Finance Executive | Investor | Lifelong Learner
9 年Great perspective! In fact, Harvard professor Amy Cuddy mentioned from her research that trust takes precedence over respect as the factor by how people judge others: "A warm, trustworthy person who is also strong elicits admiration, but only after you've established trust does your strength become a gift rather than a threat." https://www.businessinsider.com/harvard-psychologist-amy-cuddy-how-people-judge-you-2016-1
ceo at castle air museum
9 年Hi Katie, It has been sometime since we last spoke. I would like to invite you over to the Castle Air Museum and bring your Father, per our conversation a couple of years back. Joe Pruzzo
Sr Product Manager at Tesla
9 年I just read your comments on "Trust" and I feel the same way about You! I will never forget the amazing support you gave me as I fought for my life against breast cancer. You made sure I didn't have to fight to keep my job too which I still believe to this day that it was the tipping point to my survival. Thank you Dean Nelson you were in the 'foxhole' by my side, if I can do anything to help you with your dream/opportunity you know I got your "6"
Research Engineer at SRI International
9 年Great!! Good, intelligent, & understanding communications leads to trust.
Rambus Silicon IP | Semiconductor | Customer Advocate | Sales Mentor and Coach
9 年Nice to see the mention of the action taken by Barry-Wehmiller in lieu of layoffs.