For many, mentoring is something that we have personally experienced. It may sometimes be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Most people find they get as much as they give after being in a mentoring relationship.
The impact of having a mentor can be significant. A mentor provides guidance, encouragement, valuable knowledge, and a listening ear, making them a powerful resource for personal growth. From creating clearer career paths to bolstering self-confidence and inspiring action in our everyday choices, mentors help us talk through roadblocks we may be facing.
Mentoring can have far-reaching effects on people’s lives. Are you looking into being a mentor yourself? It’s a fulfilling path to make a difference, especially for those from diverse backgrounds or industries.
Mentors Support When Needed
Mentoring can be an invaluable resource for mentees when navigating challenges. It allows mentees to access the insights and experiences of mentors, who serve as confidants and sounding boards.
Many people have been fortunate to have had many mentors along their journeys. This rings true for Josh Levy, the Principal of Waterstone Properties Group, who encourages recent graduates to take advantage of this opportunity by seeking out experienced individuals from whom they can learn invaluable lessons.
“Many people are happy, willing, and so generous with their time and have made all the mistakes that we’re going to make. They can really show you the path.” – Levy during our conversation with him.
The mentorship process offers mentees a safe space to explore their challenges while gaining support and professional development that can help them with situations they can face in their everyday lives.
Mentors Can Help You Learn New Things and Grow as a Person
Good mentors not only provide mentees with the opportunity to learn new skills. They also offer professional advice and emotional support to help mentees gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Mentorship offers fresh perspectives and new resources to mentees. Having someone outside their daily environment means exposure to resources that mentees will otherwise not be privy to.
This mentoring relationship can result in greater self-esteem, improved decision-making, and an overall better quality of life, both for the mentor and mentee.
In addition, mentoring can also make it easier for mentees to find success in their professional lives. Mentors can help mentees with precise career goal setting, planning, job searches, developing technical skills, and even developing professional networks for future or current opportunities.
CEO and Chairman of The DAVIS Companies Bob Davis talks about how he feels about being a mentor:
“Honestly, as far as leadership and growth and mentoring, I think I’m a habit that just won’t break. I am a dog on a bone with that, I just am always pushing folks to be better than where they currently are…. being able to inspire someone to be able to see really what credentials they bring to the table, and that there are no limitations other than the ones they put on themselves, then now all my job is helping them get there. I’m not going to tell you, I haven’t been disappointed over the years with some people that, you know, just never took themselves seriously enough to invest the time and energy into being what they could be. But I gotta tell you, I got a million happy stories of folks that I got to work with. And we’re like, this was awesome.”
The Mentoring Relationship Is Reciprocal – Both Parties Benefit
One of the great things about mentoring relationships is that both the mentor and the mentee stand to benefit. For mentors, it can be incredibly fulfilling to help others work towards their goals and watch them grow and develop.
Mentors also get the opportunity to reflect on their own experiences and better understand themselves through teaching. A mentor can also better appreciate different perspectives and skill sets through mentorship. Mentors will become better communicators and listeners by being in a mentoring relationship.
At the same time, mentees benefit from having someone to connect with during good and challenging times. A mentor can help mentees become the best version of themselves by making an impact in someone’s life.
Research conducted by Sun Microsystems in Santa Clara, California, revealed that mentees and mentors involved in mentorship programs had a far greater chance of being promoted than those who were not. Specifically, mentors were six times more likely to be promoted as compared to those without mentoring, while mentees were five times more likely to experience the same. This demonstrates the value of mentorship for both parties in their career paths.
You Don’t Have to Be an Expert to Be a Mentor – Just Be There When They Need You
Mentoring skills can be developed with practice and dedication. You don’t have to be an expert to be a good mentor. All you need is the willingness to listen, offer support, and dedicate time. Being present for your mentee during difficult times can go a long way in helping them stay on track, work toward their goals, and overcome challenges.
Mentors can provide emotional and psychosocial support, advice, and guidance that goes beyond textbook knowledge. Having someone to talk to, bounce ideas off, and confide in during challenging times can make all the difference in a mentee’s life.
By taking on the role of a mentor, you can have a lasting impact.
Listen to Beers & Careers and Learn the Value of Mentoring Relationships Through Personal Experiences
Listening to personal stories or experiences of being a mentor or mentee can be an invaluable way to gain insight into mentoring. At Beers & Careers, we provide a platform for individuals to talk about their experiences, including mentoring and how it has impacted them.
Beers & Careers is your go-to for professional insight and exciting stories about non-linear career paths. Hear the powerful stories of professionals on topics about mentorship, leadership, career shifts, and more! Enjoy engaging in conversations among professionals who have had valuable experiences helping people grow in their careers and develop problem-solving skills.
