Harnessing The Power of Mentorship: A Pathway to Collective Success

When it comes to training and fostering growth in your team, it can be all too easy to develop detrimental practices. Whether it’s excessive control or a lack of support – the truth is that neither of these approaches contribute positively to your team’s progress and development under your leadership. 

As with most things, finding the right balance is crucial – as is recognising that mentorship is a dynamic relationship that involves mutual learning and support.

Here are some reasons why you should value mentorship within your organisation.

1. Building strong mentoring relationships with your team only enhances the cohesion amongst you all, ensuring that your mentees feel supported but also maintain ownership over their own work. This cultivates a sense of pride in their accomplishments and fosters a more enthusiastic and dedicated team that genuinely values the work they do.
2. Don’t fall for the common assumption that mentoring only benefits mentees. Seeing someone that you have worked with grow and develop is extremely gratifying! We quite literally love to see it. And your colleagues value having someone who can help – 43% of US gen Z say the most important quality in a manager is one who can offer mentorship.
   
3. When you have a dedicated team that prioritises both personal and collective growth, you are well-prepared for business expansion. By having dynamic and imaginative individuals who are eager to contribute their ideas, you create an environment that fosters continuous progress. The presence of vibrant minds at the table not only stimulates innovation but also inspires others to contribute and propel things forward.

Now, what makes a good mentoring relationship?

1. Mentorship is all about creating a sense of safety around growth and development. Naturally we rarely get things right the first time – a healthy mentoring relationship allows room for errors and provides honest, constructive feedback.
2. A large portion of this comes down to patience and the ability to envision long term goals and perspectives. Instead of hesitating to give an opportunity to someone who may seem unprepared, see it as a chance to learn and grow! In order for your mentees to feel pride and ownership over their growth, it’s important that you allow them to figure things out for themselves.
3. Listening! Find out what makes your mentees tick, uncover their strengths and use these personal insights to guide them. The more excited your mentees are to learn – the faster they will grow, it’s that simple!
4. Remember that one size doesn’t fit all. Everyone is unique so really take the time to work out the best way to engage each mentee. Are they more practical? Do they like to read and digest slowly? Would they prefer to learn several things at once? Understanding your mentees’ desires and drives will make it easier for you to help them, and in turn, for them to grow and prosper! It’s a win-win.
5. Training is important, so be sure to take the time to sit down and assess their progress. Help them where you can, recognise areas where they need more guidance and identify opportunities to push them forwards. By demonstrating your investment in their growth, they will feel valued and appreciated.

It is incredibly valuable to build strong team relationships. Great mentoring relationships help to cultivate this culture from the beginning, benefiting both mentor and mentee significantly.

Drop us a line to discuss how we can help.