Getting Started

Wil’s Wednesday Words

So, I have been retired for 6 months from a successful career in the real estate industry—both in the Brokerage/Sales and Association Management sides of the business. I am a former business owner in the building materials industry and I have a degree in Accounting from Clemson University. But more important than any of that, I have been married to the love of my life for 41 years and we have 2 incredible married children and 3 of the smartest grandchildren you’d ever want to meet!

As a retiree, I don’t feel like my work is finished. It is truly a new chapter that is starting for me. As one friend said to me “Now, everything on your calendar is something you added”. And, I feel like I still have something to offer to anyone that is interested in what I have to say. I have decided to write this Blog—Wil’s Wednesday Words. I’m going to try to add new content every other week. I will talk about leadership and management along with family, marriage and raising children. I hope these posts will be something to that will interest you and that you will look forward to these posts regularly.

Today, my tidbit for you is about managing people. Something my Dad taught me early in my career working with him in our family business—Riley Lumber, Inc.—was “never ask someone to do something you are not willing to do yourself.” In other words, never be above doing anything required to complete the day-to-day tasks of your business. While you may not be the most qualified or provide the greatest return on investment for doing a task, your willingness to help or assist a teammate shows your interest in their contributions to your organization’s success. Whether you actually do the task or not, your willingness will garner the respect of your co-workers.

So, whether it is a late afternoon delivery, installing a yard sign at a remote location or helping to clean up after an event, as the leader of your team always be willing to pitch in. This works at home as well. Working with your children to clean up their toys, to organize their room or doing yard work offers an opportunity to teach as well as connect.

Remember, “never ask someone to do something you are not willing to do yourself” will make you an exemplary leader! Happy Wednesday!