No this isn’t a post about monkeys, gorillas and primates, it’s a post about the one person in the room and building that’s your advocate. Previously, I wrote Who’s Your Jovita Lopez on mentors, servant leaders and knowledge base. Best case scenario, these individuals mentor and shape the next generation. They provide counsel, insight, share standard operating procedures (SOPs) and help you identify where the landmines are (where to watch out). They exist in the corporate, public and community sector. It is the reason there is continuity in any organization. In the workplace, the 800 Pound Gorilla advocates for you and your potential. They see something unique about you and strive to help. They put their entire weight behind you and help advance your career. Find and identify them. Make the ask. They want to help. Help them help you.
The best 800 Pound Gorilla identify’s, mentors and counsels the next generation on a daily basis. They do it with urgency and understand it is fastest way to build leadership and ensure continuity.
David Molina is the Founder and CEO of BilingualHire, a Portland, OR-based consumer internet startup focused on advancing the careers of bilingual [Spanish+ English] talent. Molina can be reached via email or over on Twitter.