How can you maximize the impact of your mentor in change management?

One thing I learnt from experience is that mentoring works when the relationship is organically developed. Organic mentor relationships often develop over time, as two people get to know each other and build trust. This can lead to a more natural and authentic relationship.

In my experience choosing a right mentor for personal and professional development is very important . Having empathy in addition to professional skills is something I look for in mentors. I was fortunate to have few mentors who helped me professionally and also in my personal journey

When I started looking for a mentor, I thought experience and skills were all I needed to consider. But I quickly learned there's more to it. A mentor shouldn't just be a walking resume; they need to be adaptable, especially in fast-changing industries. If you're like me, you don't just want someone who was an expert ten years ago. Laws and relevant topics, like AI, are constantly evolving. So, I made sure to check my mentor's recent work, not just their past accolades. I've found that this approach doesn't just prepare me for today; it sets me up for future challenges. Trust me, if you choose a mentor who's not only seasoned but also current, you’re investing in a guide for both today and tomorrow.

It's my experience that separate and independent of choosing the right mentor, the relationship with your mentor has to be one of high trust. So, while you may choose the right mentor, you too have to be a good mentee. Meaning that as the mentee, you have to be willing to ask the questions that you know may yield a response you are not ready to hear, but willing to take to heart. You need to be vulnerable enough to get the benefit of the mentor's insight othewise, why else would you have a mentor?

Mentorship is a reciprocating relationship where both members learn from each other - it is not a top-down relationship - it is far more familial. Given that definition, your mentor, regardless of their experience and resume, is your sounding board for ideas. It is your "safe space," where you can propose recommendations without ramifications, and potentially find perspective on your ideas based on your mentor's experience and wisdom. Change Management is not a dark art that requires wizardry - change management is about constant two-way communications where teams know and feel that their voices are heard, their ideas are valued, and that their hard work will pay off. Your mentor will help you see a path to achieve that goal.

It is just as important to discuss “what’s in it for your mentor”. Mentoring requires serious investment of time and energy. In my experience, I have found that people who offer to mentor are usually driven by a strong desire to help others and hone their skills further through mentoring others. Besides, networking and relationship building are some other additional motivators. Understanding where mentors are, in their own quest of mastery may help in determining if they are the right fit for you, at this point in time.

Once you select your mentor, you must clear up your objectives and needs. This will help to ensure that the mentoring relationship is productive and beneficial for both of you. Remember, the mentoring relationship is a partnership. It is essential to be open and honest with your mentor about your objectives and needs. This will help them to provide you with the best possible support and guidance. Start by conducting a self-assessment. What are your current change management skills, strengths, and weaknesses? What are your short-term and long-term goals? Think about what you want to achieve and learn from your mentor - Please discuss how you will track your progress and evaluate your outcomes.

In my experience, not only with a Mentorship, but in all things of life, you should know where you want to go, what you want to become. Once this is clear, then you can start defining the path to it. Otherwise you will be lost in the way. My recommendation is to invest the time to define your objectives and needs, in order to take full advantage of your Mentor.

In my experience, it's crucial to take an active role in your mentorship by initiating regular meetings or check-ins with your mentor. You should come prepared with questions, topics for discussion, or challenges you are facing. This way, you will take advantage of the opportunity to learn from your mentor's experiences, insights, and expertise.

Remember you are the captain of your own life. Therefore you should take hands-on with a Mentorship, and not only expect for the Mentor to give you direction.

I've found mentors to be very helpful when you can articulate the context, the dilemmas and the options. I'd recommend a structured approach. 1. Start by outlining your business challenges to ensure your mentor understands the scope of the changes 2. Articulate the dilemmas and challenges you're facing (resistance to your tactics, lack of adoption etc) 3. Talk about how you're planning on addressing these challenges and the pros and cons of each option 4. Engage your mentor as a thought partner, ask them what they have done when faced with similar challenges 5. Agree on what you'll do differently 6. Follow up and let them know how it went Remember the best mentoring relationships are a journey and not just one conversation.

Building trust and rapport with your mentor takes time and effort. However, it is an essential part of a successful mentorship relationship. To create a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship, it is important to - Be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not. Your mentor will appreciate your authenticity. Be genuine. Show your mentor that you are genuinely interested in their guidance and support. Be curious. Ask questions and learn from your mentor's experience. Be grateful. Thank your mentor for their time, expertise, and support. Be patient. It takes time to build trust and rapport. Don't expect to become best friends with your mentor overnight.

Mutual trust is important and crucial for the achieving the desire result and successfull relationships. Mentor and mentee relationships require a trust between both the patty.

One of the greatest gifts you can gift yourself is the gift of 'understanding'. Being able to understand, appreciate, and empathize with others, especially on topics that you may disagree with is a skill and gift that will help you grow as a leader, follower, and human being. There is a saying ... 'You only know what you know.' So, my suggestion is to grow what you know by exposing yourself to new ideas, connecting with people that are outside of your comfort zone, and taking time to challenge yourself in how you see the world. Having a diverse perspective is a gift because not everyone is open to receiving it. Invest in yourself and seek out diverse perspectives because they are opportunities for you to be better tomorrow. Thoughts ...

In many times I have realized how different persons can contribute with diverse ideas and that is enriching for all parts. Pick up your phone and call that ex colleague or friend and set up a meeting for a coffee, then you can talk about any topic. Of course, be open minded to really listen to different perspectives.

Ask your mentors to introduce to other great minds or thought leaders in the organization or community. I have benefitted immensely from knowing the role models, sources of learning and/or mentors of my mentor.

Change management is to understand Organisation needs at the right time and implementation in correct perspective.Its not only feeling gaps but to take the Organisation at the desired level which is required or pending from a longer period.

It is not uncommon to outgrow your mentors. Outgrowing is a natural part of personal and professional growth. If you feel you have hit plateau and your mentor can’t help break through it, it’s time to consider new mentorship opportunities.

You must not forget to appreciate the time and expertise your mentor is investing in your development. Express your gratitude for their guidance and support. And if possible, stay connected even after your formal mentorship ends, as they can continue to provide advice and be a valuable resource as you progress in your career.