Being A Mentor Is Almost As Good As Having One...
Being a Mentor is Almost as Good as Having One, Maybe Even Better
By The Creative Group
Provide a fresh perspective, expand your network and even get in line for advancement by mentoring a junior employee.
There's plenty of discussion these days about the benefits of having a mentor in the workplace yet rarely much mention of the advantages of being one. But forming a mentoring relationship is a smart career move, no matter which part you're playing. By serving as a role model you not only help your protégé grow professionally, you also create opportunities for yourself. Here are some of the benefits:
Paving the way to advancement.
How do top executives prepare for a promotion? Many of them target an employee with strong potential and groom that person to eventually assume their role. Even if you're not a senior manager, this strategy can work for you. Mentoring someone who can transition smoothly into your position often provides your company with just the incentive it needs to promote you to the next level. It also ensures that once you do advance, you have someone skilled and competent on your staff who can be an asset to you in your new role. By mentoring someone today, you may in fact pave the way to your next promotion.
Building communication skills.
Remember the saying, "There's always room to improve"? Nowhere is it more true than when talking about effective communication. As a mentor, you'll gain experience listening, offering feedback and providing constructive criticism--all important skills to master. 
Expanding your network.
Anyone in your field is a potential valuable contact--your mentee included. She can refer qualified job candidates to your workplace and introduce you to other professionals in your field.
Helping hands.
If you dread vacations because of the paper that piles up in your absence, it's time to become a mentor. Train your mentee to take over some of your duties while you're away. Your protÚgÚ can also pitch in when your workload is too great.
Providing fresh perspective.
You may find your mentee offers a fresh perspective on the issues affecting your industry and your workplace. She can provide insight into how people just starting in your business are feeling and what types of challenges they face. Awareness in this area can make you a more effective leader.
Feeling good.
Advances within your career can boost self-esteem, and serving as a mentor is no exception. Being asked to assume the role is a powerful compliment, regardless of who requested your assistance. It means other people admire your knowledge, expertise, talent and professionalism. You can take pride in this and gain personal satisfaction in helping your mentee further her professional career.
Article furnished by The Creative Group, a specialized staffing service placing marketing, advertising, creative and web professionals on a project basis. 
