Whether you’re a new business owner or have been in business for decades, you’ve probably thought about mentoring—or have even done so informally. The desire to stay active in your business and community is simply in your blood.
Mentorship is a noble and often fruitful cause. Employees cite career growth opportunities as the No. 2 reason they’d leave a job (after pay), and mentorship can help provide the leadership and development opportunities your workers desire.1
Do you have what it takes to show up as an effective mentor within your business or community?
Answer the questions below to find out.
What’s motivating you to become a mentor?
How much time do you have to dedicate to mentoring?
Where are you at in your own career?
What’s your view on feedback and criticism?
How do you think culture could affect a mentor-mentee relationship?
I want to stay connected in my industry and build my network. | |
I want to better understand what people in my industry/business are going through to ultimately learn how I can help improve things. | |
I’ve developed a lot of knowledge over the years and want to help less experienced professionals build their own careers. |
My time is very limited. I can barely keep my head above water right now. | |
I could meet with a mentee once a month for coffee or lunch. | |
I could meet with a mentee regularly and carve out time between our meetings to do research, make connections within my network, or set up activities. |
Just starting out. I’m fresh to the business environment with lots of new ideas. | |
10-15 years in. I’ve been through my share of challenges and know what it takes to get to the next level. | |
20+ years in. I’ve seen it all, and I also try to stay up to date on the latest trends in my industry. |
I’m willing to provide feedback and call people out when necessary. | |
I don’t feel comfortable providing criticism. I prefer to point out people’s positive traits. | |
Honest feedback—provided in a respectful manner—is important. I can point out opportunities for growth and provide direct advice when prompted. |
Cultural differences may exist, but I don’t feel comfortable broaching conversations around that. | |
Culture can have a big impact on how one navigates their career. It’s important to discuss cultural differences and address my own biases and assumptions. | |
I don’t think it matters. Mentoring is about career growth, not culture. |
1 Principal survey of small and midsize businesses (fewer than 500 employees), including 458 business clients and 250 employees, Jan. 25–Feb. 5, 2023.
Insurance products and plan administrative services provided through Principal Life Insurance Company®, a member of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392.
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