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The Value of Mentorship: Why It’s Time to Invest in Yourself

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When I stepped into the financial industry in 2008, I had no idea I would be starting a long term career in banking.  I found myself falling in love with the retail environment, the customers and their stories, and ultimately the meaningful impact a banker can make on a person, business, and community. Now, as the Chief Retail and Community Development Officer for Fortuna Bank, I can tell you that mentoring in the professional workplace is one of those experiences that has been invaluable in my career, both as a mentor and a mentee. It’s something I deeply believe in because I’ve seen firsthand how the right guidance can unlock potential, help navigate challenges and accelerate growth. I’ve been lucky to have had women in my corner who not only provided practical advice but also made sure I knew I wasn’t alone in my journey. They’ve been there to celebrate the wins and to remind me that setbacks are just part of the process. What’s unique about female mentorship is that it’s grounded in the recognition that our experiences are shaped by a specific set of challenges, and that awareness adds a layer of understanding that can make all the difference.

When women mentor other women, something special happens. There’s an unspoken understanding that comes from shared experiences—of being the only woman in the room, of being underestimated, of navigating double standards. That common ground fosters a deep sense of trust and empathy. We can share not just career advice, but our personal stories—our triumphs, our failures, our frustrations, and our dreams. And in doing so, we help each other grow, both personally and professionally.

Leading by Example

Early on in my career, I operated as an unofficial mentee. Mentorship doesn't always have to be a formal relationship with regular meetings or structured guidance. In fact, some of the most valuable mentorship moments in my career have come through observation—watching how someone navigates the workplace, handles pressure, or interacts with others. There are individuals I've admired over the years—not necessarily because of their titles or achievements, but because of the way they carry themselves. The way they approach challenges with grace, how they manage conflict without drama, or how they lift up those around them. These people don't have to say a word for you to learn from them. Their actions speak volumes, and watching them in action can offer an incredibly rich learning experience.

When you observe someone who exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and emotional intelligence, you begin to internalize those qualities. It’s a form of mentorship that doesn’t require direct interaction, but the lessons you take from it can be just as impactful as any conversation or formal coaching session. For example, I’ve learned a lot from colleagues who seem to handle stressful situations with calmness and patience. By watching them, I picked up how to remain composed, even in high-stakes moments.

This kind of "leading by example" mentorship also plays into the idea that we are all mentors in some way. Even if you're not formally mentoring someone, your actions and behaviors are still teaching others. People notice how you present yourself, how you deal with setbacks, and how you communicate. Sometimes, being a good mentor means simply showing up every day with authenticity, kindness, and professionalism.

So, if you’re seeking mentorship, don’t forget to look around and observe the people you admire—sometimes the best lessons come from simply watching someone lead by example.

The Mentorship Journey

Choosing the right mentor is crucial. It’s not just about picking someone with a title or experience level that seems impressive. It’s about finding someone whose values align with yours, someone who has the kind of insight you’re seeking, and someone who genuinely wants to see you succeed. I've found that a good mentor doesn’t necessarily need to have all the answers, but they need to ask the right questions and challenge you to think differently.

The best mentors are those who are open-minded, willing to listen, and genuinely invested in your growth. What I learned early on is that mentoring doesn’t always have to be a big, time-consuming commitment. It’s about quality over quantity—having someone who can offer a fresh perspective, challenge your assumptions, or just give you the confidence to take the next step. Those small moments of insight can have a lasting impact.

In my experience as a mentor, I’ve realized that it’s not just about offering advice or sharing what worked for me. It’s about listening, understanding the unique context of the person you're mentoring, and providing tailored guidance. Mentoring requires a certain humility—recognizing that your mentee’s journey will be different from yours. It’s about empowering them to find their own path, rather than just telling them what to do. Being open-minded to their experiences and challenges is essential.

As a mentee, taking ownership of the relationship is key. You must be proactive and intentional about setting up meetings, being consistent, and making the most of the time your mentor offers. Respecting your mentor’s time is paramount, so be prepared for each conversation. Come with questions, updates on your progress, and clear goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance on specific challenges you’re facing, whether they are related to career growth, navigating office dynamics, or balancing personal and professional responsibilities. The more engaged you are in the process, the more meaningful the relationship will be, and the more you’ll benefit from it. Don’t wait for your mentor to do all the heavy lifting—take the initiative to drive the conversation and make it a mutually beneficial partnership.

Regular follow-up is another critical component of mentorship. Both mentor and mentee should check in consistently to ensure that progress is being made and that the relationship is evolving. As a mentor, follow-up might involve revisiting goals, reviewing action plans, or simply offering words of encouragement. For mentees, it’s important to demonstrate growth and to reflect on the advice and guidance given. Staying in touch and continuing to assess whether the relationship is meeting both parties’ needs ensures that the mentorship remains valuable and productive over time.

Mentoring for Growth and Success

Mentoring doesn’t have to be formal or structured, either. Sometimes, it’s as simple as having an occasional check-in or a quick conversation when you need advice. The best mentoring relationships I’ve had have often been more about real, candid conversations than any formal program or set of expectations. It’s about openness, respect, and a mutual commitment to growth. Whether as a mentor or a mentee, the relationship should be dynamic and flexible. As long as both parties are willing to engage honestly and learn from each other, mentoring can be a powerful tool for development at any stage in your career.

Finally, the power of female mentorship is not just in the immediate support it offers but in the long-term ripple effect it creates. When women support one another in the workforce, we are not only advancing our individual careers but also helping to shift the culture of workplaces and industries as a whole. Mentorship can be the key to opening doors, breaking down barriers, and ultimately creating more inclusive, equitable environments for all women. By mentoring others and seeking mentorship ourselves, we’re participating in a cycle of empowerment that strengthens our professional communities, uplifts women across industries, and paves the way for future generations to thrive.

 

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