The gift that gives back to both the mentor and mentee.
An article written by Dishili Young, PE
How can a young professional effectively progress towards their goals, when they cannot clearly see the path? How can a seasoned professional sharpen their own technical skills and gain fresh perspective, while increasing their impact on the community? The answer to both questions can be found in one word and that’s mentorship. Mentorship provides countless benefits to both the mentor and mentee.
A study conducted by Gartner and Capital Analytics used statistical analysis to examine the financial impact of mentoring. They found that it provided success for mentors, mentees, and employers. Listed below is a small sample of their findings:
- Mentees are five times more likely to be promoted than those who are not mentored.
- Mentors are promoted six times more often.
100% of Fortune 50 companies have mentorship programs[1]:
Mentorship more efficiently and effectively grows the mentee. Mentors provide vision, encouragement, and accountability. For 10 years I had a goal to obtain a post graduate degree. Within 3 months of sharing this goal with my mentor, I started graduate school. He created a plan which allowed me to prepare for the GRE, take it and enroll in school during that short time.
I went on to obtain that degree ahead of schedule, despite dealing with the loss of a spouse, working extended hours, and maintaining numerous outside commitments. Mentors equip you with the tools and skills to quickly accomplish seemingly unachievable goals.
However, the benefits of mentorship also extend to the mentor. Mentors can experience improved leadership and communication skills. They can obtain increased recognition, gain new perspective, and obtain new skillsets.
Most importantly, mentors are provided with an opportunity to give back and shape the future which provides them with a renewed sense of personal fulfillment.
I have had the pleasure of mentoring what I believe are some of the brightest, most forward-thinking young professionals.
Among many things, they have sharpened my technical skills by asking unique and thoughtful questions: and they offered a fresh perspective which has brought my approach to employee recruitment and retention to an elevated level.
Probably the most fulling part of my experience as a mentor is seeing some become mentors to others.
In summary, mentorship offers benefits at all levels. It is my deepest desire that you will have the opportunity to experience some of these same benefits from mentorship at both a personal and professional level.
About the author: Dishili Young, PE currently serves as Vice President and Engineering manager with Neel-Schaffer in it’s baton Rouge, LA office. She holds both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Louisiana State University and Auburn University, respectively.
Did You Know:
Applicants for professional engineering licensure in the State of Mississippi can obtain qualifying experience through a mentoring arrangement. They can!
To learn more review Section 9.11 of the Mississippi rules and regulations found at the following link:
https://www.pepls.ms.gov/rules-regulations
[1] Mentorship statistics: the research you need to know; The Mentor Method Mentoring Statistics: The Research You Need to Know (thementormethod.com)