As I reflect on my journey, I am convinced beyond a doubt that having a mentor and a coach has been the compass that steered me through the challenges and propelled me toward tremendous professional growth. One invaluable resource that individuals often overlook in their quest for career advancement is the guidance of a mentor or professional coach. In this blog post, we will explore the significant impact that investing in a mentor or coach can have on your career compass, drawing insights from the perspective of a seasoned career coach.
It was roughly 12 years ago when I was in a meeting with my then-supervisor and mentor, Lydia Todd. She turned to me and said, “You would make a fantastic life coach.” I recall reflecting on her statement and saying to myself, “That’s awesome, but what the heck is a life coach?” This was 12 years ago when coaching had not yet hit the mainstream, at least not in my world. Who knew that those 7 words, spoken by my supervisor, would shape my career trajectory in amazing ways? Who knew that those 7 words would bring me to my ikigai, life purpose, and make all the difference in my world?
That night, I went home curious and googled “what is a life coach” and when I learned the essential tenets of what a coach does, I instantly said, “I already do this”! And my journey began. I started researching life coaches. I immediately came across Tony Robbins and began listening to him. I bought all of his CDs, used ones, and was instantly enthralled. I loved the language and the framing that he used to help get me focused and clear about what I wanted. I loved the impact he was having on others and began my research to become a certified coach. And the game was on.
Within the next year, I got certified as a Life Coach, connected with a former college friend who had launched her coaching business, and “hung my shingle” as a coach. If Lydia Todd had not said those 7 words to me, I would not have known or thought of the world of coaching. I owe her a great deal. The wonderful news is that we are still in touch and connect periodically to update one another, share wins and challenges, and tap into one another’s wise counsel. I love having maintained this mentoring connection.
Let’s explore the importance of assembling your people wheel of professional tribe members.
Mentorship as a Source of Wisdom and Experience
First, we all need a Mentor. This is someone more experienced who can provide the “inside baseball” knowledge acquired from years of experience. This is an individual you respect, and who can be both a source of wisdom as well as a trusted guide when you reach a fork in the road. The right Mentor can be involved in your development for years to come.
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in career development. A mentor provides guidance based on their wealth of knowledge and real-world experience. Their insights can be invaluable in helping you navigate the nuances of your industry, make informed decisions, and avoid common pitfalls.
Mentors not only share their successes but also open up about their failures, offering a holistic view of their professional course. Learning from the experiences of others can save you from making costly mistakes and accelerate your growth. A mentor serves as a role model, inspiring you to set and achieve ambitious goals while providing a supportive presence during challenging times.
Lydia was my supervisor and continues to be my mentor. I am grateful for the true source of knowledge and insight that I have received and continue to do so.
Understanding the Role of a Professional Coach
Another key spoke in your people wheel is your Coach. And by coach, I do not necessarily mean a generalist who can help you with a variety of things. My idea of the perfect Coach is someone who can help you – right now – with an extremely specific skill. Perhaps it is someone you admire because you have seen them display that skill, whether it is dressing for success or public speaking. Work with that Coach to perfect that skill via practice, observation, and feedback.
You can also hire a professional coach. They can serve as a strategic partner in your professional development, offering guidance tailored to your unique strengths, weaknesses, and goals. They help you navigate the complexities of your career, offering a fresh perspective and insights that can be instrumental in achieving success. The coach-client relationship is built on trust and collaboration, creating a safe space for self-reflection and growth.
One of the primary benefits of hiring a professional coach is the personal attention you receive. Unlike generic career advice, a coach tailors their guidance to your specific situation, providing actionable strategies for overcoming challenges and maximizing opportunities. This personalized approach is crucial in helping you identify and leverage your strengths while addressing areas that may be hindering your progress.
Let me take a moment here for a pit stop. Because I made a mistake early in my career, and that was relying on my boss to be my Mentor and Coach. The problem with that approach is … what happens if your boss leaves? Or what if your position changes? You could be left stranded, without that guiding light, which is why I believe these roles should be held by individuals outside the chain of command and maybe individuals outside of your organization.
The Return on Investment (ROI) of Professional Guidance
Investing in a mentor and/or professional coach is more than a financial transaction; it is an investment in your future success. Numerous studies have shown that individuals who engage in coaching and mentorship experience higher job satisfaction, increased self-confidence, and faster career progression.
Overcoming Professional Plateaus and Challenges
At various points in our careers, we may find ourselves facing stagnation or encountering obstacles that seem insurmountable. A mentor or professional coach can provide the guidance needed to overcome these challenges. Whether it is developing effective leadership skills, improving communication, or navigating career transitions, a skilled coach offers practical solutions and strategies for personal and professional growth.
So here is a homework challenge:
1. Reflect on your personal and professional goals for 2024. Identify areas where you need guidance, advice, or skill development.
2. Research potential mentors and/or coaches. Look for professionals who have the experience and expertise you seek. Consider their background, achievements, and whether their values align with yours.
3. Once you have identified potential coaches or mentors, reach out to them through email or a platform they use for mentoring. Express your interest in their expertise and explain briefly why you believe they are a good fit for your needs.
4. Propose a brief initial meeting or consultation to discuss your goals, their approach, and any questions you may have. This allows you to gauge the chemistry between you and the coach/mentor and ensure that you are comfortable working together.
5. If the initial meeting is positive, discuss the logistics, such as the frequency and format of future meetings, any fees involved, and the overall structure of the coaching or mentoring relationship.
Conclusion: A Catalyst for Success
In conclusion, the decision to invest in a professional coach or mentor is a strategic move that can significantly impact your professional journey. The personalized guidance, wisdom, and support provided by these professionals can catalyze success, helping you unlock your full potential and achieve your career aspirations.
As you embark on your professional path, consider the invaluable role that a mentor or coach can play in shaping your road to success. The investment made in their expertise is an investment in yourself – one that yields lasting benefits throughout your career.
Remember, success is not a solo journey; it is often the result of collaboration,
mentorship, and continuous learning. Embrace the support of a professional coach or mentor and watch as your career unfolds with newfound clarity, purpose, and success.
“One of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see and to help them navigate a course to their destination." – John C. Maxwell
