Not too long ago, I was in a coaching session with a client and left with a refreshing reminder of what it means to truly care about the people who help build the dream. This particular person was evaluating important next steps regarding personnel and we spent time discussing their desire to invite a part-time member of their team into a full-time role.

Early in my career, I’d moved across the country for a new job. In those first few months of navigating the newness of my role and team, I made a conscious choice to go around my team leader for a decision. The situation involved differing perspectives on how to achieve an outcome and I knew that the regional leaders would back me if only I could get to them.

Walking into the coaching session, I remember feeling a little apprehensive about how the conversation would go. The co-founders I was working with had a tough go of it. Both were deeply hurt by the other.