Hi! Welcome back to #MentorshipMonday! I have mentioned before that Jim Rohn has been an incredible mentor in my life. There is power in mentorship and the life long impact it can have on your career. A true mentor models best practices and guides mentees towards career path mastery. "My mentor said, 'Let's go do it'-not-'You go do it'. How powerful when someone says, 'Lets'-Jim Rohn
A great mentor is there to show you how to do the work better. Being a mentee includes the discipline of dedication to learning and integrating new skills. Here are 5 steps to maximizing the benefits of mentorship:
1) Ask questions. Cultivating curiosity will serve you well as a mentee...and in life. You should create an intention to learn, improve and grow. Learn to ask thought provoking questions that prompt discussions. Express the freedom to have a hearty debate about what you feel passionate about. Explore your perceptions and challenge your preconceived notions. Ask questions that only your mentor can answer about their career experiences and learning opportunities.
2) Take action. Create an action plan, discuss the plan, then put it into motion. Give it your best effort up front and then ask for feedback. Evaluate what went well and what didn't...then make adjustments. If you've been given something to work on, make sure you are prepared before your next meeting.
3) Don't be afraid to disagree. Acknowledge and understand that you don't have to take every piece of advice your mentor gives to you with unquestioning devotion. If you disagree with something they've said, tell them. It will lead to a discussion with much more value than if you simply nod your head in agreement and accept direction in silence. Doing so creates silent friction and eventually builds resentment. Be willing to trust your mentor with your vulnerability and open honesty.
4) Be open to feedback. Have the best attitude and recognize that your mentor is there to help you. They would be doing you a disservice if they don't provide honest, sometimes confrontational feedback. They aren't doing this to hurt you. You have to be open to be coached and stay receptive to the things your mentor shares with you. Your mentor is there to help you.
5) Respect your mentor. Respect is a two way street. It should be given and earned. This means showing up to appointments on time and being prepared in advance. Being a great mentee means being dedicated to learning and practicing new skills.
If you need a mentor...or, are interested in becoming a mentor-we are here to help. Contact me today for more information. See you soon! Warmly, Susan