Leaving a Legacy

Most of us have had someone in our lives who was a mentor. It may have been an older friend who gave great advice and passed on wisdom to you.

I had lunch today with an old, valued Marine friend. Halfway through the meal, he asked me what he could do to support me in some personal goals. After lunch, I reflected upon the exchange and realized that he and I had mentored each other for the past 28 years.

Earlier this week, I wrote a post called Developing Talent, which told a story of one of my Marine mentors. This afternoon, after reflecting on that and my lunch discussion, I revisited the following roles* a mentor may undertake:

1. Teacher – imparts skills and knowledge required to accomplish a job.
2. Counselor – establishes trust, listens to challenges and provides guidance as necessary.
3. Guide – helps to navigate and understand an organization.
4. Motivator – helps to keep focused on the performance and pushing through tough times, while developing, self respect and a sense of self-worth.
5. Sponsor – helps create challenging and instructive opportunities that may not be available.
6. Coach – takes an active role in observation, assessing capabilities and providing feedback and instruction.
7. Advisor – helps cultivate professional interests and set SMART career goals.
8. Introducer – refers and makes introductions to persons or opportunities that will enhance the mentee’s career.
9. Role Model – sets an example for the mentee to follow.
10. Door Opener – helps the mentee network and stay in touch for professional purposes.

Mentoring is an intentional process, with both parties sharing responsibility.  Done correctly, there are few better ways to leave a legacy.

What legacy will you leave?

*Adapted from User’s Guide to Marine Corps Values.