Deron Brown, President and COO of PCL Construction’s U.S. operations, emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort and taking risks in order to grow personally and professionally. He discusses three key risks that can lead to new opportunities: relocating to a new market, taking on a role outside of your experience, and asking for help. Brown shares his own experiences of relocating his family to different cities for career growth, highlighting the benefits of building relationships across different regions and industries.
Moving to a new location not only exposes individuals to different market operations but also allows them to broaden their understanding of their industry. Building relationships with leaders in new regions can expand one’s network and influence. Brown stresses the importance of being intentional in building relationships when relocating, including getting involved in company culture committees and attending events to strengthen your network. By immersing yourself in company culture and getting to know coworkers on a personal level, you can enhance your professional connections.
Taking on new roles or assignments outside of your comfort zone can lead to valuable skill-building opportunities. Brown advises seeking out the most challenging projects to learn and grow in your career. Volunteering for initiatives that no one else has done before can set you apart from your peers and increase your value to the organization. By tackling difficult assignments and helping struggling markets to become successful, you can build a reputation as a trusted leader within your company.
In a culture that often values self-sufficiency, asking for help can be seen as a sign of weakness. However, seeking advice and admitting gaps in knowledge can prevent costly mistakes and foster a culture of collaboration and learning. Brown emphasizes the importance of seeking clarity and connecting with mentors who can provide valuable guidance. By asking for help and valuing the expertise of colleagues, professionals can build stronger, more collaborative teams.
Overall, embracing challenges and risks that intimidate others can lead to significant professional growth and opportunities. By leaning into discomfort and taking calculated risks, individuals can evolve and reach new levels of success. Rather than letting fear immobilize them, professionals should embrace opportunities for growth and development. Brown’s experiences in embracing discomfort and taking risks highlight the importance of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone to achieve personal and professional growth.
