“When I became a manager, I knew it wasn’t just about telling people what to do. I learned that being a leader wasn’t about being in charge—it was about earning respect and trust through action. I had a team of young guys who were eager but lacked confidence in their abilities. At first, I was focused on pushing them to hit the numbers, but I soon realized that being a true leader meant investing in them as people, not just employees.
I started taking time to listen to their concerns, encouraging them to take ownership of projects, and helping them grow. It wasn’t always easy, but seeing them gain confidence and succeed was one of the most rewarding things I’ve experienced. Being a ‘manly man’ in the workplace, for me, means setting the standard, being humble, and showing up for your team.”