What is the ripple effect you are having on others?

Six years ago in 2017, whilst I was working in Singapore for LinkedIn, I had the opportunity to interview Mrigank. Mrigank was working at a commercial real estate services firm, based out of Gurgaon, India. We came from diverse geographies, cultures and backgrounds, and our paths crossed during that interview.???

The short story is Mrigank didn’t get the role. It was one of dozens of virtual interviews for me at that time. I was focused on filling multiple positions and had a hard deadline as I was about to give birth to my second child.?A few weeks later, I received a LinkedIn message from Mrigank asking for feedback and saying it was a good experience for him, even if he hadn’t been accepted into the role. As I headed out on maternity leave, I didn’t think much more of it.??

A few years later, in 2019, I received an update from Mrigank that after the interview he had worked on the skills we had provided feedback on. He mentioned that my background had served as an inspiration for him. I learned that in the two years, he had diligently worked his way into a top business school, and subsequently secured a position at Bain & Company, a top tier consultancy, and one where I started my career.?I was blown away that he had reached back out and shared all of this with me. And, to my great embarrassment, I couldn't even remember our interview.

Again a few years later in 2021, I had more updates on how things were going in Mrigank’s career, and this continued to be a regular and important exchange for me, something I really looked forward to. Mrigank thrived in his consultancy career, surpassing the level I ever reached in that field, and he continues to send me updates on his advancement and the skills he continues to develop and master. Would I hire Mrigank now? In a heartbeat.

Over the years, we became close enough to share our personal updates as well. Amazingly and incredibly, I even received an invite to Mrigank’s wedding, and even though I couldn’t attend, I saw beautiful photos of their special day.?

This story is one of my all-time favorites now for so many reasons:

? It highlights the genuine generosity and exceptional qualities of Mrigank. How many times have others impacted our lives, but we’ve never shared it with them? How many missed opportunities have there been to connect meaningfully with others by letting them know what changes or decisions we made due to an interaction with them??

? The importance of showing up as kind and gracious, no matter what the outcome or the situation is. I've always had a strong belief that everyone should have a good interview experience, even if they turn out not to be the right person for the role. If I had been distracted, curt or dismissive, I would have missed out on the relationship we have today

? The power of LinkedIn! I obviously am very biased about the value that LinkedIn can provide but I credit LinkedIn for being an easy way to stay in contact for 6 years despite the numerous changes in roles and geographies in both of our lives. We were able to stay connected all this time

I hope this story helps you think about how you show up everyday. Don’t underestimate the ripple effect your actions have on others. There have likely been countless times in your life when you've unknowingly influenced someone in some way.

And if someone has left a lasting impact on you, be like Mrigank and let them know. Today is the perfect time to make someone’s day!