When individuals in leadership positions take someone under their wings, the results can be powerful.
Mentoring plays a big role in the nonprofit sector. But it is often a limited role – used primarily to help disadvantaged youth. Nothing is wrong with that, of course. Would be that all youngsters had one or two powerful role models in their life. But adults need mentors, too. From the employee fresh out of college to the person with management aspirations, we can all use guidance.
I was extremely fortunate in the job I got right after graduating college, and the one right after graduate school, that I had someone take a deep personal interest in my career development. If it had not been for my mentors’ interventions, it might have taken me years to reach a level where I would be invited to participate at a national level -- if I had even started on a path in that direction. Yet, because of my mentors’ believes in my abilities, and their willingness to endorse an unknown, I was able to attempt great things, and have the opportunity to succeed. Despite my lack of experience and credentials, I had been allowed to take part in something greater than myself and be exposed to high-powered people who could open even more doors for me.
I want to highlight the role of Dr. Terry Davis, who was my boss for two and a half years, and is still a friend and colleague. She constantly provided opportunities for me to develop and test my skills, and has always been the first to recognize my efforts and champion my achievements to her colleagues and superiors. While I worked for her she encouraged me to attend, and provided funding for, formal courses and workshops in my career field.
To me, one of my mentor's most important roles has been as a guide. For her, opportunities, decisions, and even daily tasks, represent "teachable moments" that she links to academic career development. She helps me understand how my choices can impact the future; knowledge that I would otherwise be able to obtain only through hindsight. She educates me on what is possible and what is advisable through the examples of individuals further along in their academic careers than I. Because of her, I have been able to allocate my efforts in a more purposeful manner, and have surely avoided costly missteps. She has received no payment for all she has done for me, but has voluntarily weaved these lessons that can be found in no curriculum into the course of our days.
It should come as no surprise then that research indicates that informal, or spontaneous, mentoring is more effective and satisfying than formal programs. Recognition of a person's potential and interest in their development cannot be fabricated or forced. Yet, if an experienced, influential individual is inclined to search out and nurture the possibilities in others – what a difference!
