How To Survive and Thrive With Your Office Buddy
10 tips to make the most of mentorship
Let’s face it, the corporate world loves its freebies.
And what’s more “free” than an unpaid mentor disguised as a “work buddy”?
They’re your BFF in the office… except they get blamed if you can’t find the coffee machine or accidentally tick off the office gods (aka the stakeholders).
Here’s the catch: this whole mentorship thing depends on your buddy’s mood and their own ‘war-room’ stories with past newbies. You could land a cheerleader or someone who views you as extra work. It’s unfortunately a gamble.
Been there, done that!
As a newcomer, I’ve encountered them all — from the wild one who hurled a credit report at me, to the supportive soul who’s there when needed, and the eager beaver who practically commandeered my sessions on a whiteboard in the meeting room.
And now, as a mentor buddy, I’ve seen a spectrum of newbies — from the curious types who inquire about every keystroke I make, to those elusive ones who never even grace me with a face-to-face meeting.
Let me share a few tips on how to make the most of it! So, How Do You Survive (and Thrive) With This “Mentor”?
Become the Giver, Not the Taker
One of the easiest ways to win favor and get in their good books. Don’t be a burden! Ask “How can I help?”
Aim to be 1% helpful today, 10% tomorrow, and soon enough, you’ll be a superstar of your destiny.
Branch out
Don’t rely solely on your buddy. Grab coffee with other newbies, chat with experienced folks, and even attend company events. You never know who might become your secret mentor!
Skip the Party Planning
Beware of the previous one! Look for ways to learn the core work, not just fetch coffee or organize office trivia nights. Offer to take notes, shadow the “masters of the floor,” or cover for someone on vacation.
Focus on the 90–90–90 Day Plan
- First 90 days: Observe and absorb everything! Learn from everyone, from the CEO to the cleaning crew.
- Next 90 days: Support and learn. Do your work and ask for feedback — like a free coaching session!
- Next 90 days: Find your wins. Any low hanging fruits that can help add credibility.
Don’t Be a Know-It-All
Your buddy isn’t here to be schooled. They’re your guide, not your student. Keep the ego in check.
Find Your Niche
This is the easiest way to be “known”! Become the data guru for the sales team or the human library for internal documents.
Share your knowledge and become a valuable asset. As the people approach more, you shall have more avenues to learn.
Be Generous
The more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Take initiative, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
Master the 1:1
Can’t snag a formal meeting? Grab a coffee, share an elevator ride, or just sit by them (without being annoying!).
Come prepared with questions, not explanations. But, prefer not to ask questions that are just a Google search away!
Remember, they’re not a genie with unlimited wishes!
Confidentiality is Key
Don’t overshare anything you wouldn’t want your manager to hear. Yes, ahem, yes! They do have to give a daily/weekly report to your manager. And anything they think could get in the way of work — they shall report.
Not Feeling the Love?
Switch Buddies! Sometimes, personalities clash. Don’t be afraid to politely request a new mentor.
Remember, this “buddy” situation can be your golden ticket. By being proactive, helpful, and a little bit playful, you can turn this corporate quirk into your biggest advantage!
