When you need a mentor…
There comes a time in every leader’s career when a mentor can make the difference between thriving, surviving or collapsing. The most self aware leaders catch this early on and reach out for assistance. However other leaders miss the window who keep working harder – trying to make it on their own.
Mentoring is a rewarding relationship that benefits both mentor, mentee and their organization. The relationship is an intentional process of two people working together for mutual gain and enrichment based on this shared experience. Today, mentoring has evolved from simply training an employee to being a productive relationship that offers guidance and counsel to develop the mentee’s abilities to the fullest. It is much more than skill training. Rather, an executive mentor assists in the growth of the mentee in all areas of life and work.
Five Observations: What Makes Mentoring Work
- Both the mentee and the mentor are fully engaged in the process.
- Both demonstrate a high level of agreeableness. It always works best when you like each other.
- The mentee assumes responsibility for the process.
- The mentee has a high degree of openness to the process – they are teachable.
- The mentor has high emotional stability.
Is it right for you? Is it the right time?
The best way to determine this is to have a conversation about it. I’ll be honest and direct with you. If I feel it can add value at this time – I will tell you that. If I don’t (could be for a variety of reasons) I will also let you know and even discuss when might be the best time.
