Why Everyone Needs A Mentor
Because simply put, we don’t know everything.
Nor do they, however being new to a job, a company or even finding yourself in a newly, upturned life situation, it’s important to have someone that you can turn to for guidance.
I read a great quote once that said “everybody is doing something for the first time” and this sits with me everyday. That CEO in your business didn’t come to the job fully skilled and ready to handle every situation — there are plenty of things that come with a role that you are not prepared for because without the crystal ball, how could you be?
So if that is something that is happening to your CEO, then it sure as hell is a significant factor in your own role. You don’t know what you don’t know, and a mentor is someone who can be that silent cheerleader standing behind you the whole way as you fall, stumble, sail - towards eventual success.
Getting a mentor is the shortcut to success — Bo Sanchez
Starting new in a management role for me was a HUGE change in my life, and whilst I was ready for the chance to step up — what I was not ready for was everything that comes with a ground previously unknown.
I owe a huge part of my smarts and abilities to the people who have been there day in, day out as a support for getting me through my career. Whether it comes from your direct manager, or a colleague or just someone that is worlds above you in what they know, I remain the biggest advocate for having someone to turn to for advice, support and help. Let’s be honest, it’s basically a front row ticket, popcorn and drink included, to many a meltdown!
Is constantly asking for help a sign of weakness?
Not in the most remote of remotelys! I put my hand up daily to seek support on areas that I have not yet experienced — whilst it could be seen as pushing the friendships, I see it as a chance to soak up the best possible range of experience through others gone before me and get the reassurance that is quite frankly, really hard to give to yourself when you are so unsure. Some people come into their jobs daily and would scoff at the idea of asking for an opinion outside of “what they know” so they way I see it — it’s better to be able to recognise your shortcomings and have a mind that is open — and able — to take on feedback.
How much is too much?
Know your limits. A mentor isn’t there to give you every answer and to be honest, try not to go to them asking for the answer. Go instead, to get the thought process, the nudge into the space that you should be thinking in, the anecdotal guidance that can help to form your own judgement. Using your mentor “too much” but in the right way, can only be a good thing. It means that you are constantly hungry for more information and wisdom that feeds into your decision making process.
Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen and a push in the right direction — John C. Crosby
A mentor calms you down. They give you perspective you are not yet capable of finding yourself. They provide an external point of view that you can either disagree with, or agree with but regardless, they set the tone for what you next move will be. They are the breath of fresh air you need when you’re drowning. The yin to your yang in helping you stay balanced and focused at all times.
Stay hungry. Stay foolish — Steve Jobs
Find someone who you look up to. Find someone who can pull you up on your weaknesses and push you forward on your strengths. Find someone who wants to be there for you and wants to see you through to success. Find someone that you trust, and someone that you want to share the highs and lows on the ride of your career with; whether that last for a long time, or a short time.
Everybody should have a mentor.
