I recently completed a Toastmasters Pathway project about mentors. The project was to think back on mentors I had over the years and think about the wisdom they imparted to me. The problem was I couldn’t think of any mentors – not in the classic sense anyway. No one overtly took me under their wing and mentored me in the ways of my career.
That doesn’t mean wisdom wasn’t imparted to me
That also doesn’t mean I didn’t actually have mentors
All of my mentors were different. They were just indirect
Typically, bosses fill the mentor role for many. I do recall a pair of bosses, one amazing and one horrible. I learned a lot from both. Both influenced me by example. The amazing boss showed me good habits and how to lead with heart. The horrible boss taught me not to lead with my emotions and how not to treat your team
In my years of working as a software developer, a couple of my peers stand out as indirect mentors. I worked with them separately on different projects. They taught me object-oriented
As a software development manager, one of my employees was an indirect mentor. I always knew he would go on to do great things – and he did. I learned how to give someone space to do great things. Point them in a direction, then back off and let them get the work done. I’d never seen anyone take so much joy and passion in his work. I was able to see it unfold and decided to do that myself
In my experience, the classic mentor scenario is pretty hard to come by. However, I bet you can think of people who have already mentored you in amazing ways. If you can find a classic mentor, that’s great. However, also pay attention to those around you who might impart wisdom, even indirectly.
Author: James Harris
Information Technology Manager. Software Developer. Blogger.
James is a guest blogger here at EngineerACareer.com. He blogs regularly at his own website, www.WorkRantsBlog.com.
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