Seven Tips For Mentors

They don't care how much you know . . .                                                                   until they know how much you care.

I've found mentoring high school and college students to be a special way to spend a little of my extra time. At first, I thought I was doing a good deed by volunteering to spend time answering questions and coaching the students on the basics of marketing and business. I felt that giving something back was the right thing to do. And of course, it is. But that's not the whole story. 

Truth is, the kids I work with give me energy. They give me an edge. They charge my batteries with their enthusiasm, curiosity, and fresh ideas. Watching them learn and grow is incredibly rewarding. And they can be great teachers. I can't tell you the number of things I've learned from the conversations we've had and the questions they've asked. When you get the chance, give mentoring a try. It's another great way to provide an edge to someone else while you are adding to one you'll be discovering for yourself.

Mentor Org Chart Medium

7 Tips For Mentors

  1. Advise (but inquire first)
  2. Advocate (but challenge first)
  3. Challenge (but encourage first)
  4. Encourage (but question first)
  5. Support (but let them stand on their own feet)
  6. Guide (but know the traveler first)
  7. Model (no buts on this one... Walk the talk from start to finish)

Add A New Comment

  • Dayna
    Feb. 5, 2011
    Rod, Nicely written and great message. I recently wrote an article with a similar theme targeting business leadership.
    "Lead With Your Heart" - http://execclub.org/?p=586

The Fine Print

Rod Brooks (that's me) is VP & CMO of PEMCO Mutual Insurance Company and serves as Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Directors for the Word of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA).  It's important to disclose both of those relationships and to be clear that this is my personal blog where I share thoughts and opinions that are solely my own.  Contact me!

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