The important role of industry leaders fostering talent through industry associations

By Michael Firman

The first round of MEA’s Mentor Program has just wrapped up and it got me thinking of the important role our industry leaders play, along with their participation in industry associations like MEA, in shaping the next generation of leaders.

The MEA Mentor Program, proudly sponsored by Eventsair, is aimed at fostering the skills and confidence of budding future leaders of the sector. The Program provides a fantastic opportunity for future leaders of the sector to take advantage of the knowledge and insights that current event industry veterans are eager to impart to them.

Much of the focus mentees have revolves around improving their career progression, building confidence, developing skills and work-life balance. Industry leaders play such an important role in offering a range of expertise in leadership, people & team management, project management, negotiation skills, decision-making, time management, and conflict resolution.

I can still remember how important exposure to our industry leaders was for me coming up through the industry for my own growth and personal development. Without those leaders participating in an industry association such as MEA, our future leaders will not enjoy the same exposure to a vast wealth of experience.

There’s so much advice that has resonated with me from my many mentors over the years, I thought that I’d put together my own top ten that can be shared with mentees and mentors alike;

1. Continuously educate yourself: As a future leader, it is important to keep learning and growing. Stay updated with industry trends, develop new skills, and constantly seek opportunities to expand your knowledge. This will help you gain confidence and credibility in your leadership role.

2. Build strong relationships: Effective leadership requires developing strong relationships with team members, colleagues, and stakeholders. Foster open communication, actively listen and show empathy towards others. Building trust and rapport will enable you to lead with a collaborative approach.

3. Lead by example: Your behaviour and actions set the tone for your team. Exhibit the qualities and values you want to see in others. This includes being accountable, demonstrating integrity, and showing resilience in the face of challenges. Leading by example inspires others to follow suit.

4. Empower others: Great leaders empower their team members to reach their full potential. Encourage autonomy, delegate responsibilities, and recognize and celebrate their achievements. By empowering others, you create a positive work culture and foster a sense of ownership.

5. Adaptability and flexibility: The business landscape is constantly changing, and future leaders need to be adaptable and flexible. Embrace change, encourage innovation, and be open to new ideas. Demonstrate flexibility in your leadership style to effectively navigate changes and challenges.

6. Communicate effectively: Strong communication skills are essential for leaders. Be clear and concise in your communication, use active listening techniques, and encourage open dialogue. Effective communication fosters understanding, reduces conflicts, and ensures everyone is aligned towards common goals.

7. Develop your self-awareness: Self-awareness includes empathy and emotional control. Cultivate these skills to understand and manage your own emotions as well as the emotions of others. This will enable you to build stronger relationships, resolve conflicts, and make better decisions.

8. Seek feedback and learn from it: Actively seek feedback from your team members, peers, and mentors. Feedback provides valuable insights into your strengths and areas of improvement. Learn from constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

9. Be resilient: Leadership comes with its fair share of challenges and setbacks. Develop resilience to bounce back from failures, learn from them, and keep moving forward. A resilient leader inspires others to stay motivated and persevere through difficult times.

10. Foster a culture of learning: Encourage a culture of continuous learning and growth within your team. Support professional development and provide opportunities for skill-building.

Since 2008, the Mentor Program has seen hundreds of event up-and-comers benefit from their mentoring relationship, learning from industry leaders who help foster the development of these future leaders who often go on to hold senior positions in our industry.

Mentoring is just as valuable an experience for leaders as it is for mentees. Not only does it develop great people, which leads to growth and profitability, it brings the best out of yourself a leader. There is much to be learned from nurturing and interacting with industry members of all ages and experience levels.

The next round of the MEA’s Mentor Program runs from September to November. Additional information can be found at www.meetingsevents.com.au/2023-mentor-program