40-Day Series: Thank You George Porta

George and I worked together first back in the late 90's. We were on the same project that was demanding, revolutionary and fun believe it or not. Even though we worked on different teams I found myself at his desk quite often asking one of my million questions trying to figure out the product and technology we were deploying. George always made time to answer my questions and provide explanations in layman terms. His patience was incredible.

A few years later George would give me a call that led to me working directly for him. Not only did I get to work for him and on a great team but it was finally the job that pushed my overall compensation up to being equal with my peers. I would learn all about sales and have the pleasure of supporting the Northeast division which was a blast. The best part of the job though was working with George...I can't possibly explain all that I learned from him. We had an interesting communication style in our working relationship and if you were to walk in the room you would have thought we were fighting.

George and I were two passionate people which came through loud and clear in our conversations. It sounds weird I know but it worked for us. It was a huge relief to work who could appreciate my passion and learning process. I didn't have to be "careful" with what I was saying or asking...I could be all me and he took it in stride. He knew how to coach me to get the best from me and would challenge me to reach for more. He knew how to take my knee jerk reactions when I made mistakes and would provide the hug of support when I was down. He was the ultimate role model of making business personal and his teaching left me with knowledge that I use everyday.

Golden Nugget: Appreciate people for who they are and focus on their strengths