You find that most successful business leaders have characteristics and traits in common, and these things define them and drive them towards success. The business world has changed immensely when compared to 40 or 50 years ago, with technology playing a massive part. We are also more aware of what goes on in business with the advent of technology and the internet. Many entrepreneurs seek to help upcoming leaders of the future follow in their footsteps. Below are some ways a successful entrepreneur can give back something to the younger generation and ensure the future remains exciting.
Become A Mentor
It is common for many successful entrepreneurs to take a mentor under their wing and help them grow and flourish in business. Becoming a mentor is an excellent way to give something back, and it can also benefit both parties. The person being mentored can gain insight and experience from a successful business leader. In contrast, the mentor can stay grounded and surround themselves with people that have fresh and novel ideas. Being a mentor is not something new, and business leaders have been doing this for many years. However, it is becoming more popular as it is also an excellent way to get favourable PR.
Offer Guest Lectures
It is also common for successful business leaders to help educate younger generations by offering guest lectures at schools and universities. Before the global pandemic in 2020, Carlton University in Ottawa, Canada, Nazim Ahmed, co-founder & CEO of CanvasPop, was joined by Robin St Martin of Iron Horse Security to give a lecture to its students and give them insight into their businesses. These guest lectures happen all the time, and the more successful a business is, the higher in demand their leaders are. However, although their time is limited, it is still an excellent way to give back to younger generations and help inspire them to do great things.
Offer Business Coaching
You also find that some of the best entrepreneurs will sometimes take someone underneath their wing and coach them in many aspects of their business. Business coaching is something that many of the top business leaders experience, no matter how successful they are. Some of the famous names in the business world that admit they have had coaching include:
- Bill Gates
- Steve Jobs
- Richard Branson
- Eric Schmidt
- Barack Obama
- Steve Bennett
- Roger Enrico
Even the most successful business leader does not know everything about their industry and using a business coach can be an excellent idea. Helping to coach other business owners can be extremely rewarding and beneficial for both parties.
Starting An Apprentice Scheme
Another way that successful business leaders can give something back is by making their companies hire apprentices and using a mixture of the techniques above. They can help train and nourish the business leaders of tomorrow and help direct their careers. Seeing future generations gain the knowledge and experience for success is all the reward needed, but their companies will often benefit from these programs.