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OPINION
Get up, stand up
Mentorship relationships are mentee-driven – so, it’s up to you to not only establish one (or more), but to make it worth your while.
T he U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory defines mentorship as “a protected relationship in which a more knowledgeable or experienced person guides and nurtures the professional development or growth of another, outside the normal manager/subordinate line management.” My mentors have certainly impacted my career path, and I believe that not having one can be a significant handicap.
Javier Suarez
■ Mentorship relationships are mentee-driven. So, it’s up to you to not only establish one (or more), but to make it worth your while. Take the initiative, build a clear vision of what you want to accomplish, maintain momentum, be open to new experiences, and absorb feedback. Keeping your ego in check and accepting you will make mistakes are keys to success. ■ Relations between mentors and mentees can be formal or informal. Both types of these relationships have been critical for my own career. I set specific goals and timelines with formal mentors. With informal mentors, I’m more likely to brainstorm ideas, and discuss sensitive situations. Whichever way or combination works for you, center trust and honesty at the core of the relationship.
The best mentors are empathetic and supportive. They actively listen, provide constructive criticism, and encourage, motivate, and lead by example. They also recognize that everyone’s journey is different. Likely they have had their own mentors, whose lessons still guide and shape them.
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One of the pioneers of reggae, Bob Marley wrote several songs that have become anthems. His lyrics were purposeful and direct, inspiring generations to address personal, spiritual, and socio-political issues. As we address mentorship in the marketing space, I am drawn to his words: ■ “Wisdom is better than silver and gold.” Beyond simply being knowledge, wisdom is experience.
See JAVIER SUAREZ, page 4
THE ZWEIG LETTER AUGUST 5, 2024, ISSUE 1548
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