EPISODE 15: SEARCHING FOR A MENTOR? START HERE WITH Heather Adams
Live Date: August 30, 2021
Show Description: In this solo episode of Make Me Known, Heather Adams shares the value in the mentor/mentee relationship. Whether you are looking to become a mentor or looking for one, Heather walks you through the qualities that make a great mentor and leads you to the people who will be the most receptive.
Link to Full Episode
This Episode Will Teach You:
What qualities to seek in a mentor
What traits to seek in a mentee
The value in having a mentor, both personally and professionally
Biggest Takeaways:
Three qualities that make a great mentor:
Someone who listens more than they advise
Someone who is invested in long-term development and not just a short coffee meeting
Someone who is nurturing and kind, but also firm
Three qualities that make a great mentee:
Someone who has a great deal of initiative
Someone who is open to critique and eager to learn instead of defensive
Someone who is conscientious
Personal mentors are just as vital as professional mentors. Mentors amplify professional growth, but so often, we forget that we need mentors in our personal lives, too. Know a woman who’s been happily married for 50 years? Ask her if she’d be willing to share her knowledge that you can apply to your own relationship. Also, keep in mind that while we are drawn toward finding mentors in fields we’re passionate about––and that’s important––we should also seek out experts in areas where we know we’re weak. If you’re a strategic genius but terrible with numbers, seek out a successful financial mind to help yours.
Quotables:
“When you initiate communication, be detailed in your request. Tell them where you’re looking to improve, then ask for a clearly defined commitment: Would you be willing to meet with me one day for an hour every month for the next six months? They need to understand from the very beginning what it is they are signing up for if they agree.” - Heather Adams, 6:40
“I think we all, women in particular, hear that it’s critical to have a mentor, but most people don’t have the slightest clue as to how to find the right one. We’re not just searching for a warm body here. We’re really looking for someone who is invested in our long-term personal and professional development. After more than 20 years in my career, I have a few thoughts on seeking, selecting and sustaining a mentor partnership.” - Heather Adams 3:47
“Who are those people going to be for you? It’s scary to ask someone to be your mentor, I understand. But, think of the woman 20+ years from now. How will she be different if you asked and that mentor agreed and changed your trajectory? Advocate for yourself. Advocate for her.” - Heather Adams 14:15
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