A mentor is that one person who will guide you, help you and take you under his or her wing as you navigate your career choices. Think Clark Kent and Jimmy Olson of the Superman series. In sports, coaches are mentors to players, and second string players learn from the starters. Everyone needs someone, at some point in their career, to nurture them and help them grow their potential.

It has been said that mentoring is a' brain to pick, an ear to listen and a push in the right direction.' Every person you meet in your career has something to offer, whether they work for you, with you, or you work for them. At least once in your career, you will meet someone who truly inspires you; a leader who makes all the right moves, treats those around him or her with respect and gets things done in a manner that makes those around him or her stop and take notice.

Before you can pinpoint what you want in a mentor, it's important to identify your career needs and growth areas. What aspect of leadership do you want to learn how to do better? You are unique and will require a mentor whose personality matches yours.

A good mentor is understanding and open-minded, and appreciate successes as well as failures as learning opportunities. A good mentor is also optimistic and encouraging.
 
A mentor must also be a good listener and observer. As a new manager, you may find it difficult to communicate your needs and challenges. A good mentor will need to be intuitive and help you understand your needs, even if you are not quite sure yet specifically how they interact with students. This may give you a fuller understanding of their mentoring style.
 
Most importantly, a good mentor is available. The amount of attention that you may receive from a mentor is dependent on your needs, and he or she will be open to that requirement.
 
Having a mentor early in your career or as you step into a new position is very valuable as you find your way to success. Having someone help you 'learn the ropes' and give you advice can be the key to preparing yourself for the future, becoming a tremendously effective leader and achieving your dreams.

Lead With Confidence...

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