Why 15 minutes of mentorship has game-changing potential

75% of executives say mentoring has been critical to their career development.

Mentoring, even with a small-time investment, offers significant rewards for both mentors and mentees alike.

Imagine that someone with great potential and ambition approaches you, asking you to be their mentor. Despite concerns about your busy schedule, is it worth it and should you agree?

Research indicates that mentoring benefits both parties. Nine out of 10 workers with a mentor feel satisfied with their job, and mentors too report experiencing a greater sense of purpose in their professional lives.

Even a quick conversation can make all the difference.

When it comes to mentoring, just 15 minutes a week can be beneficial. In a short amount of time, you still have an opportunity to provide a mentee with focused guidance on a specific issue or challenge – giving them clarity and direction.

That, and sometimes a quick conversation over a cup of coffee can boost a mentee’s confidence and motivation or offer a fresh perspective that leads to new opportunities. To build momentum:

• Identify a time and the best way to communicate for all parties
• Establish clear expectations about confidentiality
• Talk with your mentee about future goals
• Share anecdotes about your career
• Offer tips for navigating the workplace
• Invite your mentee to sit in on meetings you’re conducting
• Connect your mentee with others in the field

Consider the benefits of being a mentor.

Still wavering? It’s worth noting that effective mentorship is mutually beneficial and can help to:

Develop new skills

You can stay updated with business and technology trends, enhance your own skills and gain exposure to innovative ideas and other ways of thinking. Mentoring also encourages active listening, ensuring that talented employees feel heard and appreciated.

Expand professional networks

While you open doors for your mentee, they can also introduce you to new opportunities and connections.

Build a sense of empowerment

Sharing your knowledge and seeing others value your advice can boost your confidence and remind you of your experience and professional knowledge.

Be a part of tomorrow.

Working with smart, motivated individuals is rewarding. By mentoring, you can play an active role in cultivating future leaders and nurturing your organization’s top talent. Providing mentees with guidance, feedback and support helps foster trust and mutual respect at various levels of the organization – in turn, promoting a positive culture.

Mentoring is a two-way street, and an exchange of knowledge and skills can be incredibly enriching for both parties involved. By volunteering your time and experience, you can make a difference in someone’s career – and boost your own in the process.

Sources: shrm.org; cnbc.com