A tribute to work buddies
By Nelsy Salden-Rebbens
When I started my traineeship, this was one of the first things I learnt: the value of buddies at work. We shared our initial experiences, got to know one another during training sessions and had a drink at the bar afterwards. We learnt that there was no competition, as everyone had their own path to follow. However, challenging and encouraging one another, along with a healthy dose of competition, were very much part of the experience.
Twenty years later, we occasionally exchange a random text message and still have each other’s best interests at heart. Our career paths have diverged, and the details of our conversations have largely been forgotten. But the bond remains.
That one colleague
And so, over the years, there have always been mentors. Like that special colleague with whom I could transform sessions, giving other colleagues the courage and confidence to change.
I hope you know them too. The colleague with whom a tricky situation suddenly becomes a puzzle that makes you think: we’re going to sort this out. The colleague who spots something you hadn’t seen yet. The colleague who complements you. From whom you learn and through whom you sometimes get to know yourself better. The colleague who knows just a little bit more about your personal life. The colleague who calls you on your way home to go over the day’s events. The one you miss when they’re on holiday.
At the end of the summer, this is a tribute to this buddy.
Absolutely brilliant
Exactly twenty years ago, I entered the world of finance. I think it's a powerful place.
Too powerful at times.
But I find the connections that can form in the workplace absolutely brilliant. Maybe the best employment benefit of all is something you can’t negotiate anywhere, yet which proves to be invaluable.
Welcome back!