Hey there, leader. Let’s have a candid chat.

You’re in a position where people look to you—not just for direction but for inspiration, guidance, and sometimes even reassurance. They see you as someone who’s been through the ups and downs and who knows the ropes. And you do.

But here’s the thing—what’s in your head isn’t doing much good if it stays there. Sharing your knowledge, hard-earned experience and wisdom is the best way to empower your team and create a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.

Let me explain why this is so crucial—and how you can start doing it more effectively.

Why Sharing Matters More Than You Think

1. Your Team Needs to Grow.

Think back to when you were just starting out. You had questions, hit roadblocks, and made mistakes, right? I did and I'm sure you did, too.

Now, imagine if someone had shared a critical piece of advice with you early on—something that could have saved you time or frustration. That’s the gift you have the power to give your team. By sharing what you know, you’re setting them up for success, helping them grow into problem-solvers and leaders themselves.

2. Knowledge Hoarding Kills Innovation.

A team that’s afraid to ask questions or feels like they’re in the dark is a team that stops innovating. Sharing openly creates a culture where people feel safe to learn, experiment, and contribute ideas.

That’s when the magic happens—when people feel empowered to take what you’ve shared and build something even better.

Especially in today's hyperdrive change environment, innovation will keep your company and firm relevant.

3. Pour It On. It’s About Legacy, Not Longevity.

Let’s be honest: you won’t be in your role forever. But the impact you leave behind—that can last.

When you pour your wisdom into your people, you build a legacy of strong, capable individuals who will carry forward your vision long after you’ve moved on.

So, How Do You Share Without Sounding Preachy or Overloading People?

Glad you asked. Sharing isn’t about lecturing or handing out advice like candy. It’s about connection, trust, and timing. Here are three ways to do it naturally:

1. Tell Your Stories.

People don’t remember bullet points—they remember stories. It resonates when you share a story about a tough decision you had to make or a mistake that taught you something valuable. Your team sees your human side and learns from your journey.

For example, let’s say a team member is hesitating to take on a challenging project. You might share a time when you felt the same way—and how taking the leap paid off (or what you learned when it didn’t). Stories make lessons stick and show your team that taking risks or stumbling is okay.

Anyone who knows me knows I love telling stories. So go ahead. Share your stories (as long as they are relevant).

2. Be a Mentor or Coach.

Mentorship or coaching doesn’t have to be a formal program with contracts and schedules. It can be as simple as having regular coffee chats with someone eager to learn or making yourself available when they’re wrestling with a challenge.

Through mentoring or coaching, you’re not just sharing what you know—you’re showing them how to think, problem-solve, and grow. And let’s be real, mentorship is a two-way street. You’ll probably learn just as much from them as they do from you.

3. Open the Floor.

Sharing doesn’t mean doing all the talking. In fact, some of the best moments happen when you open the floor to questions and conversations. Whether it’s a casual “Ask Me Anything” session or just being approachable when someone needs advice, these exchanges build trust.

Encourage your team to share their thoughts, too. When you’re honest about what you’ve learned and ask for their input, you’re showing them that collaboration and learning go both ways.

Final Thought: Start Small, Start Now

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to start sharing your knowledge, experience, and wisdom.

Begin today. Share a story during a meeting, offer insight during a one-on-one, or just ask, “How can I help you grow?”

Think of your responsibility to impart knowledge, experience, and wisdom as part of a larger apprenticeship model. This is how most business was conducted historically.  In past years, it has been the model most used in the accounting and law professions and is still relevant today.

The rewards are huge—not just for your team, but for you. You’ll see them rise to challenges more confidently, tackle problems more creatively, and maybe even surprise you with their capabilities.

And isn’t that what leadership is all about?

You’ve got the wisdom. Now, it’s time to share it.

Until next time!