9 safety mentors - how many do you have?

We may not always admit it, but we all need a mentor. It isn’t something you grow out of; if anything, as you look to progress your career, you need more support. No one can do it single handedly.

So I came across an interesting bit of guidance. There are actually 9 types of mentors you need in your network. Do you recognise these mentors in your network or are you missing any?

The Market Expert

Someone who always knows what’s going on in your industry; not just internal politics and general news you can Google. Recruiters are valuable assets who will know what vacancies are coming up and how the EHS job market is performing. They are on the phone to EHS professionals and clients all day; they know what dynamics are changing.

The HR guru

Human Resources will always be needed as people are the most important asset at work. Having a ‘go to’ person within employment law and professional development will keep you on track in your career. Just like IOSH, this mentor will be a member of their professional body and share the skills to get the most from you. 

?Guardian Angel

We all need some luck and someone to support us, especially during difficult times. Senior professionals in your network look to give something back and their advice is invaluable. They have probably come across your problem before and able to put your mind at rest. For meeting these new people, look to your local IOSH branch groups 

Board of Directors

Often the most ambitious and ruthless, having a C-suite contact opens up many opportunities and provides you insight into the strategic world. Loaded with aspirations and a vision, a Director will teach you time management and to appreciate the big picture to not sweat the small things. Look to your current executive team for advice or seek guidance from the Institute of Directors. 

Shepherd

They guide you within business; this is an individual who understands the company inside out. They are the ones who can tell you who are the influencers, the decision makers and troublemakers across the company. That isn’t to say they are gossipers; they have just figured the system and offer an insight into emotional intelligence. Befriend these people if you are looking to progress in your current organisation and treat them with respect.

Change Agent

This person laughs in the face of adversity. Often a calm and collective person, they are able to adapt very quickly to get the results they desire. You can learn a lot from these people as they offer soft skills that are sought after by businesses, and that is flexibility and resilience. This well known parable provides a good overview to change management     

Cheerleader

Irritating for some however, these people offer pep talks and high positivity to keep you motivated. With the weight of work and life on top of you, it can be difficult to stay on track all the time, yet doses of these people spur you on to continue. You will be grateful for having that person to keep you energised on your goals and remember enthusiasm is infectious to motivate others and be seen as a leader.

Truth Teller

The truth can hurt but we all agree it’s needed. Being told the truth doesn’t have to be negative and I have always appreciated that if something won’t work or I don’t understand something, I would rather be educated than belittled. Remember there is a difference between someone who is honest and someone who is cynical. So finding that person with the right approach and someone you trust is essential.

Connector

Remember that annoying phone advert, ‘I’m gonna get myself connected’. Well this is a good mantra to adopt. Many people always quote the book, ‘how to win friends and influence people’ but not everyone wants to do this. Some people are naturals at networking and often the ones who can open up opportunities for you. Look to partner with these people, someone you follow and respect through social media.

Conclusion

Although it shouldn’t be viewed as a collectors club, considering whether you need to add to your network is a useful reflection. No one can progress on their own, so look to see who can help you in your career, and more importantly, what you can do to add to other people’s network. You may even have current mentors that fit multiple types listed here and they will be the ones to really hold on to. So the focus isn’t to find 9 new people, but to see how your current network serves you. Then if you feel a gap still exists, look to find genuine connections with a mutual benefit.   

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