Every organization is different and can grow to be successful in many ways. However, one facet that many successful organizations share is the value placed on mentorship. A recent Forbes article on the value of mentorship explored several positive outcomes for organizations investing in mentorship, illustrating the importance of genuinely nurturing the next generation.
Enhanced Leadership
Mentorship sets the stage for how the mentee will understand and conduct business throughout their career. Our leaders and mentors serve as examples of how to build relationships, communicate with colleagues, push boundaries, and pursue a shared vision for the organization.
Reduced Employee Turnover
Mentoring employees can increase employee engagement and commitment to your company. Creating an inclusive environment where employees are encouraged to be creative and bring their whole selves to work is not only the right thing to do – it’s better for business.
More Female Entrepreneurs
An investment in mentoring female leaders and entrepreneurs is an investment in the future of your business and economic growth.
Better Communication Skills
Communication evolves with each generation, but different styles can create confusion and stifle connection in the workplace. Talk with your mentees about the value of meeting in person and be open to learning about the potential for digital communication as client expectations evolve.
Succession Pipeline
Finding new talent when employees leave can be time consuming and costly, but filling those open roles with mentored employees when possible can reduce the stress of a search and shows mentees that leaders are invested in their future at the company.
Paying It Forward for the Future
There was one more outcome listed in the article that resonated with me on a personal level – paying it forward. After years of being a mentee and learning from others, I now find myself in the position to do just that.
For me, mentorship began early and included many leaders in the organization, including the CEO. Let me tell you, to be in the room with executives and others who are taking time out of their busy schedule to help me learn and grow was incredible. But, it is not just about being there. They were there to help me be a better member of the organization, and they showed it by giving honest and transparent feedback (and sometimes tough advice). From my perspective and the experiences I had, I certainly understand why organizations that are investing in mentorship see strong leadership, improved retention, and develop a pipeline for succession.
On a macro level, the power of paying it forward is simple – it’s sharing your time and doing something for a person without the expectation of something in return. It is an altruistic act designed to create an impact that spreads from person to person, creating more acts of kindness. In a business sense, paying it forward is the foundation of mentorship. The giving of time and knowledge not only will impact the mentor and the mentee, but also help to transform and improve the overall culture and outcomes of an organization.
Be the Mentor You Always Wanted
What does that mean for me and others that find themselves in the mid-point of their careers?
Simply stated – it’s our turn. It’s our turn to be honest and transparent, to sacrifice our time and to give tough advice, because it will make our colleagues and company better. If an organization is made up of team members that have received and are providing authentic mentorship, it will be inherently stronger. Mentorship is the backbone of many successful organizations and helps to make a difference in the lives of their team members.
I can relate this to a quote I heard in my youth: “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” That is the benefit of paying it forward – helping others learn and excel in their lifetime. And believe me, they will remember and do the same for others.
There’s No Place Like Holmes
To the leaders who have taken time to mentor me and countless others, we thank you for the guidance and energy. We hope to pay it forward and make you proud by mentoring the next generation of future leaders. Personally, I am fortunate to be at an organization that is focused on mentorship, and it has had a profound impact on my 20+ year journey at Holmes Murphy.
If this is something you are searching for, I’m happy to tell you more about the culture of care we’ve created at Holmes Murphy. Reach out today and let’s start a conversation!