You're about to retire from the industry. How can you stay engaged and make a difference?

If you are able to connect with young minds this can be most rewarding. You need to choose well so that your contributions are valued and acted upon. The peril of working with young professionals especially in India is the wide disparity in attitudes, commitment and ambition amongst various people. Hence i say choose well, else it can be heartbreaking. But if you get the right set then watching their transformation and growth is a reward in itself.

Leveraging experience to guide new talents not only bridges the knowledge gap but revitalizes our understanding of the evolving industry. It’s a two-way street where mentoring illuminates fresh trends through youthful lenses, ensuring the legacy and principles of private equity are passed down while staying abreast with innovation. This symbiotic exchange not only enriches the sector but also keeps us connected, proving that making a difference doesn't end with retirement but transforms into a new chapter of influence and learning.

Stay engaged and make a difference as you retire by mentoring the next generation in the private equity industry. Your wealth of experience can benefit aspiring professionals. Share your stories, lessons, and advice to help them navigate the competitive landscape. Embrace formal programs, informal networks, or online platforms to connect and exchange insights. It's a rewarding way to pass on knowledge while gaining fresh perspectives from emerging talent.

I was invited to join the advisory board of a local private equity firm that focused on investing in technology startups. As an experienced entrepreneur in the tech industry, I was able to leverage my expertise to provide strategic guidance and advice to the firm's portfolio companies. In my role on the advisory board, I participated in quarterly meetings where we discussed the performance of the portfolio companies, identified growth opportunities, and addressed challenges. I also provided mentorship and support to the founders and management teams of these companies, drawing on my own experiences of building and scaling tech startups.

I believe we should let the next generation who understand their own generation to start and run businesses. What we can do behind the scene is not just to "advise" but to invest with skin in the game. When we have skin in the game, we may look at things differently. And our learning appetite increases too. But still keeping arm's length because remember our lenses may also be a little worn out to keep up with the new but a lot of the business and life experience and market insights will come in still very handy.

As you approach retirement, consider joining a board or advisory committee in the private equity industry. Your expertise can offer strategic guidance and contribute to the success of a firm, portfolio company, or related organization. This involvement allows you to share insights, expand your network, and stay current with industry developments. Choose a board or committee that aligns with your interests and values, providing a meaningful way to stay engaged and make a lasting impact.

As you approach retirement, consider sharing your expertise by teaching or writing about the private equity industry. Whether at a university, business school, or through online courses, you can educate students and professionals on the fundamentals and nuances of PE. Alternatively, express your insights through articles, blogs, books, or podcasts, offering opinions and recommendations on industry trends, issues, or best practices. This way, you contribute to a wider audience and leave a lasting impact on the industry.