Boost Your Career with Mentors
June 13, 2008 – 3:30 pmI was reading different CEO success stories and noted the one thing that they all had in common. All these successful people have a mentor or mentors to discuss their concerns, help them with their decisions and provide wise counsel for them. I was surprised to learn that many of these CEOs admitted that their main source of motivation was fear. That they felt isolated and often afraid to seek help since it is against the grain to admit a problem or dilemma they are not sure how to handle at the senior level.
The smart ones set aside this fear and seek help from a coach or trusted confidant. With the support of their mentor they are able to pursue their dreams, overcome obstacles, solve problems, and make the right decisions with much success.
Why would you need a Mentor? While working your way up the career ladder you’ll be taking on more and more responsibility, be asked to tackle tougher problems come up with strategic plans and get into the politic mix of running a business. Having a mentor or executive coach can provide a wealthy source of specialized knowledge that you can tap into. Mentors can give you feedback and insight on problems that they have tackled before and advise you on political situations you are dealing with. In the best mentoring relationships, both participants gain to learn something from each other.
How do you choose a good coach or Mentor? Look for someone with characteristics and qualities that you admire, respect and can trust implicitly. Pick someone you feel comfortable around, a skilled listener, nonjudgmental and experienced. If you are seeking specialized knowledge, ask around, people will tell you who the residential expert is. If you can’t find a mentor at work, look outside the company or your business for someone either in the same industry or similar business that would be willing to serve in this capacity. It is a good idea to have more than one mentor, to help you with various topics and situations.
Investigate if your company provides a Mentoring program. Many companies have started formal and/or informal mentoring programs to further enhance their employees’ career development. Many of these programs are through the Human Resources department. Talk to your HR representation about how you can participate in your company’s mentoring program. Besides seeking a mentor you may also be a good candidate to become a mentor yourself.
Other good sources for guidance are executive coaches, retired CEOs, senior executives, senior leaders, consultants and human resource directors.
How to get the most out of your mentor relationship. Listen to your mentor, reflect on their advice and be opened to solutions you’ve not considered. Trust in your mentor’s instinct and experience. Be opened to practical and constructive criticism. Be willing to work with your mentor so you can explore and find the answers you seek from within yourself.
Remember it doesn’t have to be lonely at the top, as long as you have a solid mentoring foundation to turn to.
Related Post: more blogs you may be interested in…
15 Great Ways to Get Noticed at Work, 5 Jumpstart Steps for Career Trailblazing,
Free Education to Advance Your Career
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