The Coaching Corner with Michael Riegel: It Truly Takes a Village

I have been reflecting on this idea recently.  As a solopreneur and an introvert, I often find myself working alone, trying to solve the problem I’m facing.  It can be difficult when the colleagues you came up with have no idea what you do and can’t really understand.  On top of that, I do not get excited about networking events.  Don’t get me wrong, I am not anti-social.  I just get more energy from one-on-one conversations. 
 
I have made a conscious effort to bring new people into my circle.  To help others, get other points of view, and make important connections.  This came into clearer focus with a recent phone call.  We were scheduled for an hour and, 90 minutes later we had to finally stop though we could have gone for another hour at least.  Who was on the other end of the call?  Demi Clark, President of the Spark Building Group.  I have come to know Demi as a participant in a Carolina AGC program that I am facilitating.  It also turns out that she is a NAWIC member in the Charlotte chapter. 
 
Over the rambling conversation that ping-ponged among a wide range of topics, it became clear that we have many common thoughts about needing a supportive team.  This is true whether you are a business owner or work in a larger organization.  I was fascinated to learn about her approach to building her team, with intention and purpose. 
 
Demi leans on the lessons she learned from her father about work ethic and has brought that forward to her own daughters (who are both comfortable with power tools!).  She credits her husband for being her voice of reason when a new idea pops into her head.  I understand that since I fill that role for my own prolific, idea-generating wife.  She acknowledges having had instrumental male bosses and mentors.  In that regard, I think Demi was fortunate.  Especially for a woman in construction.  She might be a little uncomfortable if I identify her as a role model.  Her headlong approach demonstrates that construction can be an option for women.  If you doubt me, check out her photos on LinkedIn from the welding shop and CDL training course. 
 
It was abundantly clear that Demi’s success can be boiled down to the importance of relationships.  Relationships with colleagues, managers, mentors, allies, and sponsors.  The tricky part can be fostering those relationships so you can tap into the right resource at the right time.  Too often, women in male-populated industries feel they need to prove themselves every day.  No margin for error.  Just to be seen on par with their male counterparts.  The development of genuinely supportive relationships throughout your career will hopefully reduce that real or perceived bias and allow you to achieve your most audacious goals.  Demi shared a bit of advice, “Don’t get discouraged.”  Creating your village will take time.  Keep at it with consistency and purpose. 
 
You can reach me at MRiegel@AECBusinessStrategies.com.  
 
Michael Riegel