Here's to the Nudge and to the Nudgers

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

Do you remember when you received a well-timed nudge in your career? Do you recall the nudge and the nudger? 

I remember many. I’ve been graced with generous allies, champions, and mentors over the years. Sometimes they’ve provided that gentle nudge. Sometimes it’s been a well-needed shove. It’s those out-of-the-blue, unexpected nudges that I remember most. 

Like very early in my career I worked my first full-time job after college at a community newspaper. Long hours. Low pay. But the people and experiences were priceless. Most of all, it was the feeling of self-worth I received from this job. I was building momentum in my career for the first time. 

Then, unexpectedly, the publisher announced we were closing. I’d be out of work in a matter of days. I was crushed and I really didn’t know what I’d do next. 

Within a few hours of getting this news, I received a phone call at the paper from Brian. Brian heard we were closing from our ad rep. He told me that the rival paper was interviewing candidates for a sports editor’s position. He’d already called the managing editor on my behalf and urged her to talk to me. “You’re going to need to interview today,” he said. “They’re close to hiring someone else.” 

I literally walked across the street to interview and I got the job. That sports editor’s position led me to two other jobs at the paper and eventually launched me to graduate school and on my long-term career path. It was a critical crossroads in my career and life. 

So, who was my guardian angel, my timely nudger, Brian? A long-term mentor or friend? A former teacher? A college chum? None of the above. Brian worked for the tourism bureau in the neighboring town. I’d interviewed him a few weeks before about an upcoming festival. Our interaction may have lasted all of an hour. The story turned out well, but it wasn’t Pulizter-worthy, I guarantee you. Yet, something occurred in that brief interaction with Brian that made an impression, enough of an impression for him to actively advocate for me when I needed it most.

I never repaid Brian for his kindness beyond a “thank you.” I’m not sure how I could have repaid him. His nudge changed my life. Yet indirectly, I’ve tried to repay Brian by offering the same gentle nudges (yes, sometimes shoves) across the street to dozens of friends, colleagues, interns, former employees, and sometimes just people who made a really great impression on me. You know what, it feels great to be the nudger. Even better than getting the nudge.