1. Biggest mistake of your career & how you fixed it?

Hmm… probably the biggest mistake I’ve made in the past is to use myself as a reference point when dealing with other people, big mistake. I’ve made a career out of helping other people not make the same mistakes but it’s so easy to assume that other people want the same things, are motivated by the same things, and feel rewarded by the same things. If you take that viewpoint into a management role you’re in for a bumpy ride.

2. A lightbulb moment

I can’t remember when this moment of clarity came about, but everything still pointed in the right direction so it must have been quite a few years ago. The moment I realised that it's ok to make a mistake – as long as you learn from it, make sure it never happens again and that you own it. Owning one's mistakes it's quite empowering – it earns trust (as long as you aren’t a complete imbecile) because the boss knows that if you cocked up you’re going to tell them before they find out from anyone else and that because you owned it you’ll have already taken steps to put it right. NEVER blame anyone else – nobody likes those greased shoulders…

Owning one's mistakes it's quite empowering. It earns trust (as long as you aren’t a complete imbecile) because the boss knows that if you cocked up you’re going to tell them before they find out from anyone else and that because you owned it you’ll have already taken steps to put it right. NEVER blame anyone else – nobody likes those greased shoulders.

3. Tip for tomorrow

Take the time to know your values – get help if you’re not sure what you’re all about and never compromise them. If you stay true to your values and work for a company that is a good match you’ll do well.