Bruno Morgante in Germany

In this new blog series, I’d like to ask some questions to people from different countries, backgrounds, professions, and genders who have all one thing in common: volunteering. I hope you’ll get inspired by their journeys and take the leap into volunteering.

Notice: The positions, views and information contained published here are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily represent my views or opinions.

In everything he does, Bruno Morgante believes in challenging the status quo to improve processes, get better results, and set things in order. Bruno listens carefully, works with people, communicates clearly, uses storytelling, and believes in the power of a positive attitude.

Bruno introduces himself with “I solve problems and deliver results”. He leads an amazing team of Project Managers, Portfolio Managers, and PMO Specialists focused on delivering projects on target, on time, and on cost while ensuring customer satisfaction and value realization. 

He has over 18 years of experience in large multinational conglomerates, consistently delivering business results, improving processes, building and leading successful teams, and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

As a Coach and Mentor, Bruno supports brilliant individuals and people in need on their development journey. He provides pro bono guidance, support, and advice about Leadership, Communication, Personal Development, Career Development, PMO, Portfolio, Program, and Project Management.

As a Speaker, Bruno delivers engaging keynotes with captivating stories designed to inspire and ignite emotions.

How did you begin to volunteer?

Roughly 8 years ago, a young manager, a friend, asked me if I was willing to support her new team member on her journey, specifically to support developing her self-confidence and communication skills. Only a few weeks later, I realized that my journey with that young professional was a mentoring journey.

From that moment, mentoring was very special to my heart.

During the following years, I had more than 100 mentees. Some have been with me for one or two sessions only; others have long-term nurturing relationships that most probably will continue for the rest of our lives. 

I have been a pro bono mentor on several platforms, both supporting professionals at various stages of their careers and university students eager to land their first job.

Why did you continue volunteering?

One of my principles is that if you are doing well enough, it is your responsibility to help others. It is the concept of “building a longer table, not a higher wall”.

Giving back and helping others without expecting anything in return is one of the most fulfilling experiences ever.

For those who have never experienced volunteering, I can imagine it might sound irrational, naive, and a waste of time. In reality, it is absolutely the opposite.

I have a beautiful picture to describe this.

Imagine two people on a small boat. Both have a paddle in their hands. One is the mentee, who needs some help to go to the other side of the river. The other one is the mentor, which is happy to support. They both row together. The journey might be quick or long, and it might be more or less difficult, but in the end, they both arrive at their destination.

As you can see, when you row someone across the river, you go to the other side yourself.

Five concrete results you obtain as a pro bono mentor:

• A deep sense of fulfillment that might help you answer the question “What is my purpose in this life?” derived by contributing to the personal and professional growth of others and by positively impacting their lives.

• The opportunity to refine your leadership abilities, coaching skills, and the art of providing constructive feedback.

• Gaining a constant flow of fresh perspectives! Especially, but not only when you mentor students and young professionals.

• Expanding your professional network by connecting with mentees, other mentors, and mentoring organizations could potentially lead to collaboration and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

• Revisiting fundamental concepts you might otherwise never go back to. Your mentees act as a “reminder” for mentors to revisit foundational concepts of their profession and as a mentor, you find yourself refining your own skills to be the best guide for your mentees.

How has volunteering helped you in your career?

Let me give you two concrete examples.

The connection was created with a mentee during one of the editions of the PMI Poland Chapter Mentoring Program. We built a strong, long-lasting relationship based on deep trust. Over the years, this relationship contributed to additional engagements, which allowed me to get in touch, inspire, help, and support many more people. From one connection to multiple connections and continuously growing.

Another example is something that happened at a certain point during the interview process for a position I got. I have been asked about my contribution and involvement in the #IamRemarkable initiative. I could see an honest interest and engagement in the interviewer. While I was beautifully explaining the initiative, my involvement, and the amazing feelings you live and feel during the #IamRemarkable workshops, I could see how much that person loved it, and I could see I was able to trigger some very positive emotions.

I am sure this was not a deciding factor in my getting the job, but it was a perfect way to be memorable during the interview process, and being memorable always helps.

Would you encourage other people to volunteer, and if so, why?

Not only do I encourage it, but I am actually building platforms that facilitate it. The latest one, and one I am particularly proud of, is The PMO Leader Mentoring Program. The reasons are those mentioned above.

• I believe that if you are doing well enough, it is your responsibility to help others.

• It helps the people you help live a better life.

• It helps you live a better life.

• It is fulfilling.

If, after reading this, even only one person decides to start volunteering, it will be another step to a better future for everyone.

If you would like to start helping others, to give back, potentially as a pro bono mentor, or if you would like to find someone that might help you on your journey, and if you do not know where to start, feel free to reach out, and I will be happy to help you.

Contact me via my website: I see you on the other side!