(click to read part 1 of Seek a Mentor, Be a Mentor)
Be a Mentor
Be a mentor. Why? If you are into ‘karma’, consider that what comes around, goes around. If you think ‘karma’ is too airy-fairy for you, then just know that teaching others is the best way to learn and solve your own problems. Really- it adds another dimension of sustainable learning that is unparalleled.
Becoming a mentor can be very rewarding. Seeing your protégé make excellent decisions and get what they want professionally is fulfilling, and being thanked as a propellant for this success can feel equally amazing.
How to take on a mentee? First, consider success by association. Just as a mentee is looking for successful qualities and results in their mentor, you too should understand what will make you look good in the eyes of those viewing this relationship (and others WILL find out). Get to know someone via projects or other work association, and choose someone with a stable track record, who is eager, modest, appreciative, and passionate about that they do. It is important to select someone who respects you, what you have accomplished, and what you are yet to achieve. Qualities I find excellent in a mentee: curious, loyal, dependable, ethical, hardworking, and not too serious. For me, this fosters an honest communication which can grow with our careers and lives!
Be certain that you are able to commit to the time it takes to mentor a protege: Now, there is no ‘rule’ for this. My advice in this area is to be there for your mentee whenever they need you and to honor all of your commitments. You are somewhat in the spotlight as mentor, because your mentee will want to honor you with lots of praise and will tell others if they have a positive experience.
How to succeed as a mentor: Give sound options when prompted, sage advice as needed, and wholehearted attention and support always, and you will give a gift of immeasurable and unforgettable importance in the career and life of your mentee.
My favorite mentor: Personally, I have different mentors and coaches. I consider my closest mentor one who I can count on with sacred fears or doubts, joyful news and wins, and for grounded reflection and opinion on even my most whimsical ideas! I trust her implicitly and I love her as a friend. She’s very ethical, super-smart, wise, and a little zany. Our relationship is so very special and I do treasure it!
Think, who can you be a mentor to? Perhaps someone already in your life, or a person in your organization, professional association, or social baseball team. Seek a mentee for a more professionally fulfilling 2012 and remember, what comes around, goes around!
Kelly Welch founder and president of YES Career Services is a veteran HR professional, is certified as: Personal Branding Strategist, Professional Resume Writer, Leadership and Career Management Coach, Online Identity Strategist, and is accredited by the International Coach Federation. Resourceful and creative, she is reputed for her dynamic insights and passionate commitment toward helping her corporate and private clients rebrand and position themselves for career success.