Notwithstanding a stagnant economy, new employees are still entering America’s workforce. In today’s work culture, despite the fact that there are relatively more resources when compared to years past, many young professionals find themselves unable to settle in their jobs and to effectively contribute to their company’s bottom line. To be sure, there are some young professionals who are not a good fit for their organization, but there are several who do have the potential and skill set who could succeed with guidance and mentorship.
In a few organizations in corporate America, mandatory mentorship is the normative. However, if you do not work for one of these organizations and you can voluntarily help a younger professional to succeed through your mentorship, knowledge and experience, it is highly recommended that you take the time to provide this guidance. Mentorship is not purposed to be a dictatorship or a negative relationship where one acts condescendingly. In theory, the mentor will use his or her experience to help the younger mentee to understand their job responsibilities in a way that cannot be explained in a book, to discern the culture and do’s and don’t’s and to hopefully prepare the mentee for an advanced position in the future. The mentor will also discover that the mentorship is extremely rewarding as they are helping others and also learning new things as well. Thus, a positive mentorship can prove to be a “win-win-win” relationship where the mentee, the mentor and the organization all benefit. Here at least four ways to become a positive mentor in your organization and to make a positive difference in a younger professional’s life and career:
