The Power of People Who Take Chances on You

We've all been there - at a point in our careers where we need an opportunity to prove ourselves and take things to the next level. For many of us, it's the kindness of others who take a chance and extend a helping hand that makes all the difference. Without people willing to support and guide us, our potential may have gone undiscovered.

When I first started in content marketing back in 2013, I was eager to learn but short on experience. All I had was a passion for storytelling and strategic communication. What I didn't have was a client portfolio or proven track record. I knew if I wanted to break into this industry, I would need someone influential to take a bet on me.

Luckily, I had a mentor who recognized my drive and enthusiasm, even if my resume was still sparse. She took a chance by entrusting me to manage her growing social media presence. At the time, these pages were still in the early stages - we didn't have robust follower bases or a clear strategy in place. But she saw potential in me and gave me the freedom to try new things.

Managing those accounts was like nothing else on my resume. I had to learn how to understand different social networks, appeal to varied audiences, and continuously produce fresh, engaging content. There was no room for error as any misstep could damage her brand reputation. But my mentor supported me through it all, providing guidance when needed but also the space to test ideas and evolve on my own.

Positive Feedback Fuels Further Growth

While we didn't directly generate sales from the social pages, the experience was invaluable for both professional development and strengthening her brand visibility. Creating consistent, high-quality content allowed us to meaningfully connect with new people. We started receiving positive feedback from those appreciating our posts, videos and more.

Seeing that engagement was powerful encouragement during the learning process. It showed me that storytelling combined with strategic community-building could give brands a powerful voice. Gradually, as her following and reputation grew online, it opened doors to new strategic partnerships and business opportunities offine too.

This experience taught me nuances between marketing and sales, the importance of visibility and reputation management, and the value of authentic engagement over short-term gains. Those lessons have shaped my career path and problem-solving approach ever since. They also strengthened my belief in the importance of mentorship for both mentees and mentors alike.

Continuing the Cycle of Support

Nowadays, I consider it a privilege to “pay it forward” by mentoring and guiding others the way I once was. After years of growth, I’m fortunate to lead a talented content marketing team supporting various aspects of my expanding business. In this role, I get to directly observe the positive impact of giving talented individuals a platform to shine.

My team consistently delivers powerful outcomes because I prioritize cultivating their strengths rather than micromanaging. When people feel empowered and supported, it unleashes a well of potential and creativity.

It’s always rewarding to see the growth they achieve through dedication and guidance. And in turn, their contributions play a huge role in allowing me to take my business even further. By maintaining an environment where risk-taking is encouraged and failure is a learning process, we push each other to greater heights together.

Taking Chances Works Both Ways

Whether as a mentor or mentee, going the extra mile to support others usually results in mutual benefit. As someone once said, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” I've found this rings especially true in business and career-building.

Giving chances to deserving individuals is how we cultivate emerging talent and future leaders. But those whom we help also invariably pay it forward, helping us manifest even bigger visions. Without people willing to put their trust in an unknown quantity, so many dreams would never leave the drawing board.

So I invite you to reflect on who took a bet on you in your own journey. And who around you today shows promise that deserves nurturing? Make it your mission to extend a helping hand whenever possible. You never know how far a little faith in someone can take them, and how their success may end up enriching your own story in return.

With an atmosphere of support, risk-taking and reciprocity, there are no limits to what we can achieve both individually and collectively. Now it's your turn - whose potential are you going to uncover next?