Russ Trotter’s Post

This week marks the 5-year anniversary of my joining Russell Reynolds Associates as Head of Research and Operations APAC.   I look back at the past five years with gratitude to the generosity of my team embracing me, not forcing me to be someone, but being me and allowing me to work with them. I am glad I joined this organization, a partnership based on people values, care, honesty, and humility. I am grateful to the RRA partners who allowed me to explore with my team new solutions to build a platform of research for the future, a clear vision with career opportunities I had not seen so consistently in my over 30 years of search experience.   In the five years with RRA I had over 4800 meetings, in person, virtually, small or big crowds, constructive and challenging, joyful and sad. Regardless of the nature of the meetings my brief was clear: "Do inside what we do on the outside for our clients – lead, improve how the world is lead". It is natural for me to build my succession and not worry what will be there for me, I know there will be something great, I have trust and faith in the partnership and I have seen the organization over and over again find the right solution for the client, the business and the RRA people. I have arrived, I thrive in a value and purpose driven organization and it is worth investing my heart and my passion into it, not fearing it will go lost or not be respected and recognized. 5 years have gone by fast, but let us not measure impact in time, let us measure success in value, truth and honesty creation, and that is what I feel I can do here at RRA and that is what I am grateful for.

This month, Glen Smith, CEO and CIO of GDS Wealth Management, marks two decades in the financial services industry. Glen's insights have been featured in top publications like Reuters, Barron’s, and WSJ. Recognized as one of Forbes' Best-in-State Wealth Advisors for 6 years straight, Glen's dedication to clients and the community shines through his celebrated career. Cheers to servant leadership and many more successful years ahead! 🌟    Watch the video below to get to know Glen and his journey to founding GDS Wealth Management. #20years #Anniversary #financialplanning #financialadvisors #financialplanner #wealthmanagement #fiduciary

It was fantastic to share Paul Clarke's huge 50th year anniversary with WSP in New Zealand yesterday (WOW!!) and it made me reflect on whether we will see these sort of impressive milestones in the future? At present it feels more common for people to frequently move between companies for the pursuit of better opportunities, higher salaries, and personal growth. Whilst companies should try their best to retain good people through ensuring they receive competitive salaries and are offering development, there are other benefits to the employee in staying in one place that are sometimes underestimated. Here are some other benefits that I have experienced having spent the past 12 years with a single business; 1) An ability to build strong and lasting relationships with colleagues resulting in a healthier workplace and better collaboration. 2) A deeper understanding of its culture and operations (which is also a benefit to the company in continuity of good culture). 3) Confidence to challenge the norm due to deeper feeling of personal investment in the business. 4) Better opportunities for development due to the companies clearer knowledge and trust of you, your strengths and what you can get done! 5) More long term satisfaction through experiencing the companies journey, challenges and achievements. Once again, Congratulations Paul, it's been a real pleasure to have worked with and learnt from you and thanks for your impressive commitment to WSP.

Celebrating 1 year at Booz Allen! Very grateful to have made the decision a year ago to leave my career of 10 years and venture into a new industry that I knew nothing about. It goes to show that if you have the right mindset and are open to change, you can fit in just about anywhere. It also helps that the culture of Booz Allen aligns with my personal values, which is why I chose them. As some of you know, I fell and broke my heel and ankle on Mother's Day. After two surgeries, 6 days in the hospital, and almost two months of recovery, I am hoping to receive clearance for physical therapy on Monday. This was no doubt a horrific experience for me personally, something I have never gone through before (and hope never to again). I had some pretty "down" days personally. but I also had lots of doubts after the fall about work: What about work? Am I going to be ok to be off work for so long? How will I get paid? What about all the projects I am working on, what will happen to those? It turns out, my work family had it all covered. I could not have imagined a better experience over the last two months. Not only was there NO PRESSURE about work, they encouraged me to take the time I needed to fully recover. On 7/1 I was able to return part time, to ease back in to my workload (and dust off my brain to use again). My manager literally texted me EVERY SINGLE DAY of my leave, checking in, sharing news, recommending books. My leadership sent my kids a huge shipment of ice cream. My director sent me a new book by my favorite author. My lead even CAME TO MY HOUSE to visit with me while she was down in Hampton Roads for work. I have been welcomed with open arms since I've returned, not just by my team, but from people across my division. I say that to say this: I have a strong family support system. I have an amazing church family support system. But having an equally strong, encouraging, and CARING work family is something I have never experienced before. I know there are a lot of great people in my network looking for work right now. It can be tempting to take a job when you need money. It can also be hard to know what kind of culture a company has when you are applying. I wanted to share a couple tips I used to vet companies when looking to make a career change: Research: Review the company's website, mission statement, and benefits page. Look at social media posts and how the company is portrayed in the media. Observation: Notice how employees interact, work, and solve problems. Pay attention to the tone, language, and body language of colleagues, managers, and leaders. Observe the work environment if possible (doesn't hurt to ask!) Ask questions: Ask about company culture during the interview. Ask leaders and employees to describe their experience. Ask about priorities and experiences with the company culture. Here's to hoping everyone gets the experience of working for a truly people first culture.

When it comes to showing recognition for the good work people do, bigger isn't always better. Sure, accolades and awards can be great. But have you ever had someone tell you how grateful they are for you? No spot lights. No LinkedIn post. No blasting it on the company email chain. Just one-on-one, Telling someone how special they are. Now that's something people never forget. You see, Many managers think showing recognition has to be this big public occasion. They'll go through all the trouble to show recognition, But won't take the little step to thank someone privately. Here's a groundbreaking thought ... do both! Do the big stuff sure, But remember it's the private stuff that feels really meaningful. Some great ways to better show appreciation to your team: https://buff.ly/4bHvMKq.

"I never dreamed about success. I worked for it." - Estee Lauder At Valor Financial Specialists, we believe that success isn't something that just happens; it's something you work hard for every single day. Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the tools, resources, and support you need to turn your hard work into tangible results. Whether you're navigating complex cases, breaking into new markets, or continually honing your skills through our weekly training sessions, we're here to help you every step of the way. Success isn't a dream—it's the result of relentless effort and unwavering dedication. Let's work together to achieve greatness. #TrustValor #HardWork #Success #Dedication #InsuranceProfessionals #MotivationMonday

It truly warms the heart to receive acknowledgment and recognition for the contributions and impact made during your tenure with a company. The fact that your former bosses have not only remembered your value but also actively seeks to bring you back into their organization speaks volumes about the lasting impression you left. It indicates a deep appreciation for your work ethic, skills, and overall dedication to the company's success. Such gestures highlight the significance of relationships built within the professional realm and the respect garnered through hard work and commitment. It reflects positively on your professional reputation and the lasting impact you made during your time with the company. This demonstrates that your efforts were not only noticed but also valued, paving the way for a potential return that signifies mutual respect and admiration. In conclusion, the intention to welcome you back illustrates a high regard for your talents and the positive influence you had within the organization. It is a testament to your work ethic and the meaningful connections you cultivated throughout your career.

Today's gratitude and values for me looks something like this: I am grateful for the enriching work environment cultivated by esteemed employers, where learning and growth in the legal field are paramount. Their dedication to training me has been invaluable, fostering my professional development. Beyond the Office, we uphold a standard of behavior that reflects positively on each other, embodying mutual support and respect. Our cohesive team dynamic ensures that we consistently have each other's backs, whether in challenging situations or while interacting with clients. This foundation of trust and collaboration not only strengthens our bond but also propels us toward continuous growth and success. Our individual actions and choices ripple outward, influencing how those around us perceive us. By nurturing a reputation that reflects our best qualities and principles, we honor ourselves and each other but also ensure that our impact on others is one of inspiration and credibility. Upholding one's reputation is not just about personal pride; it is a reflection of our character and a testament to the values we hold. What does today's gratitude and values bring to you?

As I reflect on my 10-year anniversary at #EY, it seems like yesterday that I was walking into WTEY in NYC! A decade of challenges and accomplishments, lessons and growth, friendship and mentorship. I am filled with gratitude having had the privilege of being part of an exceptional team that celebrates together, learns together, persists together, and even ventured into uncharted territories together. Reflecting on these moments, it always come down to the people. My colleagues have become more than colleagues. We are there for each other, personally and professionally. From deepening my expertise to broadening my perspective about the industry, these ten years have made a significant impact on my career. I am grateful to everyone who has shared this journey with me, inspired me, mentored me and pushed me out of my comfort zone. To those incredible mentors who have guided me on this journey: your wisdom, patience, and encouragement has carried me through, especially on the toughest days. Your belief in me made a difference. For every time you took a tedious concept and turned it into a profound learning experience, thank you! This decade was about so much more than work. It was about connections, growth, and collaboration. It was about turning colleagues into confidants and work into passion. As I step into the next chapter, I can't wait to see what the future holds. Here's to the next decade of mentorship, friendship, learning, and definitely too much caffeine! #CheersTo10Years #WorkAnniversary #gratitude #buildingabetterworkingworld

Reflecting on past achievements can be a truly humbling experience. 🏆 Two years ago, I was honored to receive the "Best Team Award" in my previous organization. Today, I stumbled upon this accolade once more, and it brought a smile to my face. 🌟 It's a reminder that hard work and dedication never go unnoticed, even if time has passed. 🕰️ This journey has multiple facets - from the sense of pride in personal accomplishments to the gratitude for the amazing team that made it possible. 🙏 But here's a thought-provoking question for all of us: How often do we pause to appreciate our past achievements and the people who contributed to them? 🤔 #Reflections #HardWorkPaysOff #TeamWork #Achievements #Gratitude #TimelessSuccess #AchievementUnlocked #HardWorkMatters #TeamSuccess #GratitudeJourney #TimelessRecognition #ReflectAndThrive