Years ago, I attended a mentorship program where senior leaders shared their best advice. At the time, I jotted down as many notes as I could. Revisiting them today, I’m struck by how relevant they still are.
Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re in a leadership role yourself, these lessons are timeless reminders about how to learn, grow, and guide others.
The Basics of Being a Mentee
Think of yourself as a mentee in everything you do.
Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal — sometimes the best lessons come in casual conversations.
People don’t even need to know they’re your mentor. Observe what works for them and adapt it for yourself.
Pay attention to both the good and the bad. Mentors can show you what to emulate and what to avoid.
Remember that balance is harder than it looks. A mentor can help you navigate stress, family, and priorities.
You don’t have to carry the stress of others. Focus on your own plan and strategy.
Seek out different mentors for different seasons of life. It’s okay to return to old ones when the moment is right.
Even brief interactions can carry weight. Small “mentoring moments” often have outsized impact.
Embedding Mentorship in Culture
Carve out intentional time for mentoring — it won’t happen by accident.
Don’t just look for mentors in your own field. Cross-disciplinary relationships broaden perspective.
Pay special attention to young people or new hires. It’s easy for them to get lost.
Expose others to networks and experiences they wouldn’t find on their own.
Mentorship isn’t just for people chasing promotions — it’s for everyone, at every level.
Mentorship and Advocacy
The best mentors often become advocates. Once they know you deeply, they can open doors.
Don’t force it. Advocacy typically develops naturally over time.
Not every mentoring relationship has to lead to advocacy. Some are short-term and situational — and that’s okay.
Accessibility and Approachability
Increase your reach by meeting with small groups of mentees at once.
Don’t be afraid to approach high-status people. They’re more open to mentorship than you might think.
Simple actions, like responding to emails, create opportunities for meaningful follow-ups.
Communicate your availability. Let people know the best times and methods to connect with you.
Final Thoughts
Mentorship isn’t a box to check — it’s a mindset. Sometimes it’s a structured relationship, other times it’s a brief exchange that changes your perspective.
Looking back, I’m grateful for the leaders who shared these lessons. They remind me that mentorship is less about hierarchy and more about connection, curiosity, and growth.
What about you?
Who has been a mentor in your life? What’s the best lesson you’ve learned from them?
Thanks for this, it’s been so Useful