BE A MENTOR!

What does mentoring mean to you? This subject was brought to mind a couple times in the last month. Our June chapter meeting featured our New Member Spotlight where KCALA mentors introduced new members. The Membership Committee initiated this event several years ago and it is a great way to learn both professional and personal details about the new faces in our chapter. Who knew we had a motorcycle enthusiast, non-practicing attorney, guitar player in a rock band, fitness teacher, singer and semi-professional photographer in our midst. 

Also I saw a former mentor of mine unexpectedly last month at a social event, and it brought back many memories. First of all I didn’t know how much I didn’t know! At least now I realize the learning curve is a continuous journey. Many years ago I was not so insightful! A good mentor can pave the way for someone just trying to get their feet firmly planted in a new arena, be it education, a career path or an organization. My mentor as a manger was so very patient and helpful. I learned a lot just by observing and seeing her reminded me of the qualities that I aspired to those many years ago. 

Because I was so fortunate to have several good mentors/advisors in my life I am always willing to respond to questions or hopefully be a positive influence in both my professional and volunteer life. I hope many of you have had similar experiences. Several things I have learned from both sides – mentor and mentee:

            Provide support, encouragement and positive feedback

            Be a resource and a confidant

            Help develop specific job skills

            Recommend solutions and effective behavior

            Meet often with specific goals in mind

Be a role model and a positive influence

Be open and receptive to new ideas

Watch, learn and listen

            Nurture the relationship

            Evaluate needs and goals

            Be available

            Offer challenging ideas       

            Support, support, support

I’m sure you can add many traits to this list. I hope this also prompts you to reflect on positive influences in your life and how you can pay that experience forward. Step up and be a mentor in your work place, your volunteer arena, a youth group or where ever your interest lies. The personal satisfaction is worth your time and effort.

Sharlyne Narr

President