Mentoring: A Win-Win Situation
As National Mentoring Month comes to an end, let’s reflect on the importance of mentorship and its impact on an individual’s professional development. The support and guidance from well-respected and seasoned executives is instrumental as individuals strive to achieve career ambitions. As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” Good mentors are more than just successful business people – they offer their time, network, and willingness to help others because they genuinely want to see someone else succeed.
Top 10 Qualities of Great Mentors
- Shares knowledge and life experiences
- Enthusiastic about their work
- Invests in the success of others
- Values the opinions of others
- Respected by colleagues
- Enjoys the opportunity to help others and see them succeed
- Exhibits integrity and humility
- Approachable and available
- Demonstrates a “can do, get it done” attitude
- Thoughtfully connects mentees to the right people
While mentors often serve as a good support system and sounding board, they can also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to be better prepared for that next big meeting or execute a business venture. Their eagerness to share failures, lessons-learned, and personal experiences provides valuable learning opportunities that support your professional growth. These attributes not only benefit the mentees, but also create immense satisfaction for the mentor. “I’m about paying it forward. I believe in karma. I think it’s important [to mentor others] and I enjoy it. I feel like I’m doing the right thing,” says Lori Greiner, entrepreneur and star on ABC’s Shark Tank.
When successful people are asked about their career accomplishments, you’ll notice that most of them credit those who helped them along the way, their mentors.
Who do you admire and respect? Tell us @Mgmt_Concepts #Mentoring Month and learn more about how our coaching and mentoring services can support your professional development.
