Over the next year, our mentees (and mentors) are going to give us their take on the value of having (and being) a mentor.
We experienced record number of applications this year for the WIPR mentorship scheme; we were hugely impressed by the calibre of entrants and were delighted to be able to support and place 30 mentees with our incredible mentor team.
Today we hand over to Laura Sibley, a Board Director at Hope&Glory who is being mentored by Ruth Allchurch, MD of WE Communications…
The first reaction, when I told peers, my teams and clients I was going to apply for the WIPR mentoring programme was ‘Why do you need a mentor, you mentor us!’ If I’m honest, I didn’t think I would ACTUALLY get through to the final shortlisted bunch.
…but listening to what I just said – that’s exactly why I needed a mentor, and I’m sure many of us think the same – I’m a Director at a leading PR agency but I didn’t think I would be good enough to get through to the shortlisted ‘lot’, nevermind actually getting a mentor.
WHICH IS RIDICULOUS.
By which I mean, I got to the Boardroom table because I am bloomin’ brilliant. But you’ll not hear me say that. I doubt myself ALL THE TIME. And hate to be gender specific but us women do. I know I’m not alone in thinking such things.
It is easy to see why…
- Imposter syndrome
- Men in more of the agency ‘top’ positions
- Men overtaking us on the career path (with no real reasoning behind it maybe other than they shout louder, sorry to say it men but it is true, I’d LOVE your confidence)
- Being a mum, so doubting ability to do the job
- Lack of confidence…
The list is endless and I am sure many reading this will say ‘yep I’m that or I’ve seen that or that’s happened to me…’ which is why the WIPR mentoring scheme is making a difference to our industry.
I thought it worth looking at why you’re never too senior to have a mentor. Mentors are so valuable; and the more we work through our PR careers, the more people we meet, the more friends we make and actually, a lot of these have such value in being brilliant advisors too.
Why leaders should have a mentor, or two…
- A second opinion – ultimately, a mentor can be a sounding board – for future ambitions, for any issues you might be unsure of, for ANYTHING. They’re likely in your industry circle but confidentiality is part of the ‘programme’
- To inspire and motivate you – if you’ve been in a role or situation a little while, a mentor too can build excitement on looking ahead. Seeing what more you can do, the value you can add, and more. Be another ‘voice’ to guide and excite your day-to-day career, and future
- Build your network – a mentor can be many things; they can support your direction but can also champion you. We work in communications, we might as well communicate with others; we build client and journalist relationships – so why shouldn’t we do it with our incredible professionals in the world of work
- Have the right mindset to make it work for you – you’re never too senior not to learn from those around you. Take onboard others insights and experiences. A mentor can help you look at a situation or two in a different way
- Continue to build your confidence and acknowledging your brilliance – an outside opinion can help you reflect and see what you’re shining at, and help identify areas to develop
Having a mentor can truly be a valuable guide through your career; continuing to learn and grow. Not only bringing out the best work in you but showing too the value you bring.
The key is to be realistic, be honest, be humble, be ready to listen. And ensure it is a two-way relationship.
