Giving Back I've worked with are still in touch I can approach things differently with me. They'll call me occasionally in the future. Finally - and most I don't get paid for this work with up- and say, "Prakash, I want to set up importantly - I am repaying those and-coming leaders. But I get three a time to talk to you about a few who've molded me by sharing things out of the time I spend. First, things." I've developed a robust knowledge I've learned with the next I get to develop great relationships network of people I trust. generation of leaders. I have to with talented people that I can take Second, being a mentor allows with me throughout my career. I would say 10 percent of the people pass it on. me to reflect on my own actions and decisions and think about how The Takeaways * Leaders are not born; they are made. Those with the desire to develop into leaders, who are hungry to learn and make a difference, may be at the ground levels of the organization. * The best leaders are those who are eager to share the lessons they've learned and offer candid advice to talented employees with leadership potential. * Mentors gain a lot from their work with up-and-coming leaders: They build a network of trusting relationships, they have a chance to reflect on their own behaviors, and they repay those who coached them by passing knowledge along to the next generation. CIO Straight Talk | 53