In the early years of my career, I dreamed of having a mentor, an experienced professional, guiding my career. Unfortunately, I did not have such a guide, and I was envious of people enjoying such relations.
A few years later, I found a piece of advice that ultimately changed my perspective on mentoring. It said that instead of looking for a single "The Mentor," you can learn from anyone you meet.
Suddenly, I have shifted from the mentoring desert to the sea of learning opportunities. When I meet anyone, I ask myself, "Is there anything I want to learn from this person?" It could be a presentation technique, engaging meeting participants, dealing with failure, or leading people.
If you pick just one thing from any person you meet, how many improvement opportunities or career guidance can you get?
The funny thing is that your mentor may not even be aware they are one. I remember my short interaction with the famous, now-retired CEO of one of the biggest banks in Poland. I had just started working for that bank, and my boss took me for a meeting with the CEO to present the project concept I had prepared. The friendly and open way the big boss of the bank treated a freshman made such an impression on me that I have decided that when I lead people, I want them to feel as comfortable and safe when dealing with me as I felt talking to the CEO.
But this story also means that maybe right now, you are the unconscious mentor for someone inspired by the way you solve technical issues or lead your team.
So, if you are missing an opportunity to be a mentor or being mentored, look around. There is a wealth of opportunities waiting. Just move and grab them.
