Throughout my life, I've been extremely fortunate to have had a number of excellent role models ~ beginning with my parents and 6 older siblings.  In their own way, each person modeled a unique style of decision making, leadership, values, work ethic and more.  I learned to replicate the styles that fit best with me as I grew both personally and professionally.  The pool of role models grew throughout my career and, with each new opportunity, I've continued to observe and learn. Perhaps you've experienced a similar path.

 

About 5 years ago, the idea of transitioning from this type of learning to having a professional mentor was strongly recommended to me from several sources.  It was drilled home while attending a servant leadership conference where every single speaker referenced having a mentor.  I recruited a mentor and instituted a mentorship policy at Leadership Harrisburg Area right away.  The benefits have been tangible.  Studies show that the most common benefits of mentoring include increased self awareness and confidence, reduced feelings of isolation, improved ability to accept constructive feedback, ability to identify a clear career path, and improved life skills on the part of the mentee.  The mentor can even gain perspective, improved listening skills, and strengthened leadership from the experience.

 

Mentors and mentees need not always be within the same organization.  Sometimes having an objective, unbiased resource from outside of the organization is highly beneficial, depending on the size of the organization and the person's role.  Mentors and mentees come from all levels of experience and can even benefit from turning the tables where the younger person mentors the one with more experience.  The essentials of good mentor relationships are trust, honesty, defined roles and expectations, and having goals/purpose for the relationship.  I advocate for a more formal arrangement where the mentee identifies and engages his/her own mentor and regular meetings are established.

 

A new twist on mentoring has recently been identified by LHA alumna and founder of The Human Zone LLC, Claudia Williams.  Claudia coined the term "frientorship" as a solution to the employee engagement problem plaguing our workforce.  The formula includes friendship, mentoring, and leadership and is described in a recent presentation through TEDxPSU.   To view Claudia's video and learn more, click on this link https://www.youtube.com/watch. 

Take the leap today... seek a mentor.  Become a mentor.  Start a mentoring program in your organization. Explore "frientorship!"  It all begins with a single commitment to develop yourself and others. 

 

Good luck!