I’ve been extremely fortunate in my professional career to have had some great mentors to learn from. One in particular really stood out for me. He may not realize the importance that he played in my life because of how long ago it was that I worked with him. However, I carry a lot of what I learned from him practically every single day.

 

When I was nineteen, during the summer after my Sophomore year in college, I picked up a summer job to make some extra cash for school. What seemed like a meaningless gig at the time, turned out to be one of the turning points in my life that shaped me into who I am today. The owner of the company took me under his wings and taught me a lot about business and leadership. Everyday was a learning experience. 

 

One of the fundamental things he taught me was that if I wanted to continue to advance in my career, I would need to learn how to “clone” myself, meaning that I needed to be able to teach others to be able to do what I do. If I want to take anything to the next level, I have to pass on my knowledge and responsibilities.  

 

When I started Lighthouse Management Group in 2005, I knew back then that this new business was another step in the advancement of my career and not the end. As part of the planning process, before I ever opened up shop, I started the succession process. I had to find someone I could trust and depend on to take under my wing; then train, develop, and groom to eventually pass the torch to.

 

Fortunately for me, the first person I brought in turned out to be the perfect fit. And this individual has been my right hand man ever since. I put my blood, sweat, and tears into building this business and there is no way I could turn LMG over to just anyone. I taught him everything I know, and in fact, he is an even better version of me.

 

That is why I am extremely proud to announce the passing of the torch to Nirav Shah as the new President of our Professional Staffing Services business, Lighthouse Management Group. As I pass the torch and move on to my next business endeavor, I am also excited to announce the launch of my new software start-up company – SpotLite.

 

t has been an incredible ride of nearly two decades in the staffing industry. Staffing is in my blood and I will always be connected somehow to this wonderful industry. I’ve already started the transition rather smoothly by trading in my suit and dress shoes for t-shirts and sandals. I was always envious of software startups because of how comfortably they could dress. I guess I don’t have that problem anymore!