Reaching Critical Mass

[Jon Stratis]

Siri has a great list of ways to start gaining respect. Keep in mind, however, than trying to gain respect seldom actually works. People see right through it and most often you'll just come across as an egotistical know-it-all. Focus on the team and the students. Set clear expectations and reward them when they hit milestones. Do what you can to help them succeed in whatever they're doing - this doesn't mean jump in and do it for them. All too often, I've seen mentors take something out of a students hand in order to do the job, which sends the exact oposite message. Rather, provide them the tools, knowledge, and experience they need in order to do it for themselves. Also, keep in mind that the smartest/most capable person in the room isn't necessarily the one who talks the most. It's the one that chooses the right moments to talk in order to spur the creative process.