A520.7.3.RB - Importance of Having a Coach and Mentor

Mentoring is one of the oldest forms of influence and knowledge sharing (Abbajay). In the workforce, it is shown to be beneficial for employers to encourage mentorship because it builds relationships and provides guidance for newer employees (Abbajay). Women should have mentors in workforces who work in male-dominated careers because they often feel left out; by having a mentor there becomes a balance for both them men and women (Newell, 2015). Based on the information studied this week from various articles, a mentor throughout my professional and education career will be beneficial because I will have guidance and motivation to continue toward my goals. Recently I have found a mentor to assist me through the Leadership program and at work. Before learning in depth details about mentorship and the benefits of having one, I considered this individual my friend. However, after further understanding, the individual has transitioned into a mentor because the way the relationship has formed for such things as  maintaining confidentiality, committed to honesty when I am struggling with work and school balance, listens to questions and concerns I may have and leads by example (Methros & Yang, 2006). The result of having a mentor and a working relationship has been helpful as well as encouraging because I am able to discuss with the individual goals and plans for future job progression. The individual provides honest feedback about my plans with additional ideas of how to work toward future goals. According to Forbes (Moore, 2014), the generation of millennials have sought out a mentorship more than previous generations because technology has opened doors and provides data in an instant which older generations were not able to do. I am on the older end of the millennial generation and found a mentor a few years older with more life experience to guide me through the next few years.

Abbajay, M. (n.d.). The Working Life: The Importance of Workplace Mentors. Retrieved July 17, 2015, from Careerstone Group Inc website: http://A520.7.3.RB - Importance of Having a Coach and Mentor

Methros, S. E., & Yang, C. (2006). CHAPTER 5: THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORS. Retrieved July 17, 2015, from Educause website: http://www.educause.edu/research-publications/books/cultivating-careers-professional-development-campus-it/chapter-5-importance-mentors

Moore, K. (2014, September 11). The Modern Mentor in A Millennial Workplace. 

Newell, A. (2015). 10 Reasons You Need a Mentor, Especially Mid-Career. Retrieved July 17, 2015, from The glass hammer smart women in numbers website: http://theglasshammer.com/2009/12/22/10-reasons-to-have-a-mentor-especially-mid-career/