It was a long walk down a short hallway to meet with my boss. I was terrified and uneasy about my decision, but I was committed to going through with my plan: resigning from a great job and starting my own business.
Luckily, my boss at the time was Bill West. He was the most significant mentor in my career.
When I sat in his office, I tried to ease into my decision with some platitudes, but Bill saw through my nervous energy and beat me to the punch. With his wry smile and effortless way of connecting with people one-on-one, Bill asked me flatly where I would set up my shop.
He knew my plan.
It caught me off-guard, but he remembered our early employment discussions about my life-long goal of owning my own shop, of doing my own thing. He had a way of listening to what I was saying and had taken mental notes about what I wanted to do with my career from day one.
Even in the face of my resignation, his encouragement was a testament to his character. He hadn’t forgotten my aspirations and stood by me, ready to support me.
That’s the critical role that a mentor plays in your professional and personal development: someone who truly listens. A person who is your number one fan and not only wants to see you succeed but also helps you along the way.
Bill West was a guiding force that profoundly shaped my career. His influence left a memorable mark on my professional journey.
I was buoyed early enough in my self-employment pursuit by Bill’s contract work that I could prove that what I was doing was successful. Thanks to Bill’s mentorship, I was on my way to achieving a life-long professional goal.
He guided me along when there was no one else who could help me in my pursuit.
Over the years, Bill continued to make time for me. To carve out a space now and then to check in and encourage me. Bill was always there to listen. A good mentor is a blessing. Everyone needs a fan rooting for them. I am forever grateful for Bill’s guidance and support. Cheers!
Bill West passed away on October 31, 2024. Of all the advertising and graphic design people I have known, I always thought Bill would outlive us all. He had this infectious, youthful energy that was always present. I never remember him not being able to conjure up a smile, even when he was pissed as hell at a dumb mistake by a dumb designer. It saddened me to hear the news, but I was uplifted at his Memorial service in November 2024 with some fantastic tales of his life by his closest friends and family. He lived an adventurous life to the fullest and left a legacy for his children to be proud of. I’ll always be indebted to Bill for his mentorship and friendship. Rest in peace, boss.
