Today, more professionals are actively engaged in mentoring to improve their careers and themselves. Whether on the receiving or the giving end, this partnership can be so rewarding personally or professionally. It is an opportunity to enhance communication skills, broaden the mind, and learn new problem-solving skills. In the process, both mentor and mentee can move closer towards their career goals. The article examines the benefits of mentoring, and how it differs from other professional career developing relationships.
What is mentoring?
Mentoring is when two or more people work towards personal and professional development. The mentor is often the experienced person that shares advice, experience, and knowledge with the ‘mentee’ or the less experienced. Mentors are role models and trusted advisers, and they encourage and support their mentees by sharing knowledge and suggestions, both specific and general. The mentee’s goals are to improve their expertise and possibly advance their careers.
Benefits of Mentoring Relationships
- Personal development
Mentoring relationships aim to improve the mentee’s sense of identity and competence. Mentors’ actions promote personal growth, including confirmation, role modeling, counseling, friendship, and acceptance. Through role modeling, mentees learn to manage their professional and personal lives. They also learn how to relate with peers and grasp tactics for balancing family and work demands. Furthermore, because of the mentor’s support, the mentee feels comfortable and encouraged to practice new behaviors, which makes them secure enough to seek advice and guidance on personal issues.
- Career development
Mentors support mentees to progress career-wise and improve their job chances. They help mentees understand how to navigate their industry or organization by honing unique skills, such as networking or presentation. The relationship helps mentee sharpen their management skills and prepares them to work with diverse teams.
Conclusion
A mentor can be so resourceful. They can help the mentees secure scholarships, serve as referees in job applications, and their advice can the difference when choosing a course. A mentoring relationship can assist mentees in discovering the path towards their career goals. That said, if finding that dream mentor seems challenging, there are plenty of resources that can help in goal setting and discussions around career development and goals. Find those that provide tips on career maps to discover the most appropriate career plan and path.