Work Does Matter

I had the priveledge today to act in the capacity of a trusted advisor to a former colleague of mine.  I felt honored to be thought of in terms of a trusted advisor by someone I had worked with only a brief time and not directly.  Yet he sought me out for advice.  I met with him, listened to his concerns, provide him with ways of thinking about his underlying concerns and then offered some options for his consideration.  Why did he seek ME out I wondered.  The answer I believe is that he felt safe.  He could be vulnerable, he could be confused, he could be himself without any fear of feeling foolish or acts of retribution.

We all need trusted advisors, regardless of the job we perform or the position we hold.  Trusted advisors help us get out of our head and help us to peel back the onion and uncover what is within us that we cannot get directly in touch with.  They help us to find the best of ourselves and are selfless with no hidden agenda.

I would like to hear your story and experience with your trusted advisor.  Please tell me your story and I will share it on the air.

Those three words, “I touched someone”, are golden to me and have more meaning in my work than anything else. Like most people, I work because I have a family to support and bills that need to be paid. Sure, I seek professional growth as well as financial security as much as the next person, but what I need is the personal gratification I get from making a positive difference in someone else’s life. I recently asked many former colleagues who worked with me as well as folks that have reported to me directly, how did I make a difference in your life. I asked them to tell me the stories they remembered about our interactions and the impact I had on them. The responses I recieved back covered a spectrum of mild to profound impact …but what was common in all is that I had touched someone in a memorable and meaningful way. I guess we all have certain needs we seek to have satisfied in our personal and professional lives. I would love to know what yours are.

In today’s job market, you have to differentiate yourself from the competition-you need a “halo effect”-whether you’re looking for a job or trying to keep the job you have. Part of the way you can get that “halo effect’ is to understand financial fundamentals so you can be part of the company’s financial solution.

Join Denise today as she interviews Diane Renihan, CFO, who has created FINANCIAL BOOT CAMP, and ask learn about how to develop a financial literacy foundation.

Send your questions or call in on air live today, Friday June 19th from 1-2pm at (425)373-5527.

1. For those folks who have left their company, keep your 401(k) with your past employer.  The employer is able to get better fee rates than you can with as an individual.
2. If you are in an active plan, contribute at least up to the amount of employer match.
3. If you cash out your 401(k), there are penalties as well as tax consequenses.  Make that your last option, not first option.
4. If you are more risk adverse, speak to your plan administrator if you are looking for a fund that will protect your principle.