Mentorship has been a vital process in the development of future leaders and thinkers from the beginning of time. Back in 400 B.C., Socrates mentored Plato on modern philosophy and logic. Plato picked up his own mentee and Aristotle became as famous as his predecessors. The tradition of mentorship and passing on previous knowledge and helping a younger mind has just an important roll today as it did in 400 B.C.
When pairing mentors to future leaders there is a lot that needs to be considered to ensure a good match. There are three main types of mentors to focus on:
The Challenger
This mentor will put you to the test. They will constantly question things like limits, thought processes, work habits and will get future leaders to look at the why behind their comfort zone. These types of questions are designed to eventually dissolve one’s comfort zone and increase the space for further growth.
The Cheerleader
This mentor is the confidence booster. Providing constant validation of the good things being accomplished. This helps to build a sort of mindset that anything can be done with the right perspective and hard work.
The Coach
This type of mentor is a seasoned professional that can provide the knowledge needed to innovate. The Coach is very experienced and has been through it all. They can advise about the future pitfalls and inevitable adversities the mentee will face.
True leaders continue to grow, learn and flourish. This does not happen in the vacuum but with the help and wisdom of a great mentor.
Resource:
https://www.mentorresources.com/mentoring-blog/3-key-reasons-all-great-leaders-have-mentors
