The Benefit of Longevity

As a senior-level executive, I wonder what the term senior means. Is it the fact that I have been in senior-level positions, or is it the fact I am getting older each year? As a legend in my own mind on the sports field, once-vivid memories seem to fade with time. Days of talking to others about my children are now filled to the brim with stories about my precious grandchildren. The cycle of career life continues to spin for all of us.

While we do not live in a perfect world, many may look at older professionals in different ways. While they may acknowledge an individual with a long tenure is one with vast expertise, they may also give a false perception that an older soldier lacks energy, dedication and focus to do the job. Years ago I asked a national consulting firm about its hiring practices and why it did not hire senior professionals. The people I talked to actually said they were looking only for very young professionals so they could train them the right way.

It's interesting to me that they thought one can be trained "the right way" with little on-the-field experience. I assume that mode of operation worked for them.

If you decide to make philanthropy a career choice, and I hope you do, be prepared to experience at least seven or more jobs in your work lifetime. The beginning jobs may last fewer than two years each as you are finding your way. The middle career tenure will last longer if only because family demands are now front and center. By the end of your career, you should have settled into your field of passion and interest with total joy. If all goes well, the last third of your career will also be the best as you reflect more than look ahead. You will relish every mentor opportunity, hoping to affect the next generation.