At the end of week one in my first “real job,” the President of the company invited me for a cup of coffee. Our interaction wasn’t longer than ten-minutes, but the fact that he took interest in learning who I was stuck with me throughout my career. After that quick cup of coffee, I felt a new sense of pride and confidence in my position; this was someone I did not want to let down. Acclaimed organizational psychologist, Adam Grant, refers to interactions such as this as five-minute favors; leaders who intentionally focus short bursts of positive and constructive energy upon others leave a lasting impact.
At the Metro Chamber Foundation, I have the honor of facilitating and observing leadership in action. In its 32nd year, Leadership Sacramento continues to provide opportunities for business leaders to develop their knowledge of the Capital Region’s greatest strengths and challenges by becoming more community-minded and civically engaged and expanding their network of colleagues and friends. Over the past 32 years, the program has provided opportunities for over 1,000 business leaders from across economic sectors at various stages in their career to better understand their organization’s and their own personal ability to impact their community. Understanding where one can have the greatest mark is a critical question for leaders and motivates many to lean in.
Program participants gain exposure to the opportunities and challenges facing our region which often inspires community action. A critical component of the program is a class project assisting a local non-profit. In 12 months, the class must identify the project they wish to tackle, develop a game plan for raising funds, and execute. Through the years, Leadership Sacramento classes have helped build the kitchen of an Oak Park women’s shelter, to developing an outdoor classroom promoting local agriculture inspiring our future farmers.
This month, applications open for the next Leadership Sacramento class. If you’re looking for a chance to lead, the opportunity to connect and to give back to your community, we want you to apply. Join us as we continue to help build and inspire tomorrow’s business leaders on their path to lead.
Source: Comstock’s