Workplace Mentors

In the past few months, two people I consider my workplace mentors have worked their way into management positions. I look up to them, even though they are younger than me. I admire their ambition, talents, personality, and work ethic. I came to meet them at different workplaces where as the new kid, they took me under their wings and schooled me. Interestingly, in both situations I was their replacement. They told me who's who and how the office politics worked; served as patient points of contact during my learning curve; encouraged me when I made a mistake or felt I was asking a dumb question; passed down any resources they felt could help me excel at my job (remember, they had been in my shoes); and quickly became examples of who I wanted to be and what I wanted to accomplish on the job.

Having people like this in your corner is so very crucial to workplace success and even happiness. No matter how old you are, it helps to have a good example to follow. I'm not saying someone to copy, but someone who possesses the qualities you admire and who uses those qualities and characteristics to excel. It's encouraging. And can serve as a reminder that you too can reach that level.

I'm a firm believer that success isn't achieved alone. We all can benefit from observing and learning from someone we respect, who is making all the right moves.

I wrote an article last year on workplace mentors that tells you what to consider when choosing a mentor and the advantages of the mentor-mentee relationship.

Read "The Benefits of a Workplace Mentor" here.