Despite there being 1.2 billion websites, apps, and AI- business is still about relationships. Think about the best people you have come in contact with- your coworkers, direct reports, your network, and most importantly the customers. These relationships were not transactional, they were transformational. They far outlived the company, the position, or the sale. I hit the jackpot more than once, with dynamic growing companies that allowed me tremendous personal and professional growth. I had mentors who taught me the art of being able to communicate with anyone at any time. People who allowed for mistakes to not be career-ending injuries. Bosses who taught me to not let perfection be the enemy of really good. Who taught me the importance of trust and relationship building. I have tried to inculcate those lessons in my managing style, those I have mentored, and my professional path. I love the saying "The people who are going to have the biggest impact on you and your business- you haven't hired yet". (Look around you, there was a time when many of those people, including you- weren't hired yet...) So always be on the lookout for your next hire, your next relationship. The importance of hiring talented people, building teams, giving them the tools they need, and getting out of their way- cannot be overstated. Of course supporting, coaching, and teaching those people no matter the title you hold is critical. It's amazing what can happen when people truly believe you have their best interest at heart and you establish trust. Be it customers, associates, or mentors. It is the best part of my career, the part that I am most proud of. When people I have worked with reach out to share a milestone, ask for coaching advice or tell me about their latest accomplishment. There is an authenticity to that moment that is the definition of success. Oh and revenue generation. Yes you have to make money. but if you do all of the above, profitability will follow.