The thing is, often we don’t realize what we have to offer until asked. Lots of us don’t internalize that while finding mentorship is great for advancing our careers, we already have so much wisdom to share forward. I propose 3 exercises to find that in yourself:
1. THE LIST
I got this advice from the ever-insightful Leah Spitz-Goldenhersh; she once asked me what I’m most proud of from my work, and I was dumfounded. She told me to make a list of ten things and come back to her. To avoid blank page syndrome, I dug through old project plans, google docs, calendar events, and came up with a multi-page Google Doc of accomplishments, experiences, and measurable achievements. Things I had completely forgotten about, but was reminded they are areas I actually know really well.
2. THE HOW-TO
Do this writing exercise (and then turn it into a LinkedIn post/article if you wish): Take something you’ve accomplished — a major project, a product launch, an event — and write a how-to article about it. You’re qualified to discuss, since you did it — and if there were mistakes along the way, all the better, you have lessons to impart. Voila — now you’ve opened yourself up to share your expertise with others.
3. THE MEETUP
Find a few professional peers you’re comfortable with, and get coffee. Just talk about your roles, your projects, your frustrations, and the natural inclination to be helpful and giving will come alive. When it’s a back and forth between trusted work friendlies, you’ll find there’s a real experienced, wise self under there with lots to offer. Keep that feeling of being able to help on standby, for future conversations with others.
I’ve been at this career for 15+ years and still feel like I’d benefit from all the mentorship in the world — and what I’ve found is while I’m soaking up any advice people have to offer, I’ve also got quite a bit of my own — and that was true even 10 years ago. It’s true for you, too.
Will you go for it? I would love to hear how it is for you!
