I was reflecting on a number of things this past weekend and was drawn into thinking about how fortunate I am to have the freedom to navigate my own direction as an entrepreneur.     I quickly came to the realization that this wasn’t part of a master plan or a set of strategic decisions over the last few years that got me here.  I immediately started to reflect on the guidance from an interesting cast of mentors that I’ve had over the years.  When I say cast of mentors, they truly are a cast of characters; each as unique to me as I’m sure the younger version of me was to them.  

Interesting that I call them mentors.  At the time I probably didn’t realize that I was in a mentor-mentee relationship.  I’m not even sure that my mentors realized how I felt about them or the true dynamics of the relationship.   I definitely didn’t practice gratitude as freely as I do now, but here is to hoping this post is read by all of them.  Over the next few blog posts, I’ll be calling them out.  

What makes a great mentor?  This is the age-old debate.  As I mentioned above I didn’t give this much thought when I was seeking out advice; I just was lucky enough to find the right people at the right time.  Please note this list is not exhaustive, it’s just the qualities that stood out for me as I look back at these remarkable individuals.

• Expertise  - this is fundamental;  there has to be that tacit experience or legitimate level of knowledge that makes you seek this person out.  Sometimes it’s just out of pure respect because they hold a coveted title.  Personally for me the title never mattered; it was more about the expertise and experience.

• Great Listening Skills  - ever seek someone’s council and they talk more than they listen.  To me the artful skill of listening is paramount in a good mentor.  

• Time - your mentor is likely successful, which means they are likely busy and they are investing their precious time in you, which they could be investing elsewhere.  Also, having access to a mentor at somewhat of a regular interval is important.  One or two meetings with a mentor doesn’t do it.  You need to be able to share progress, talk outcomes and get feedback at regular intervals.

• Integrity - Nothing in return - a great mentor asks for nothing in return.  He or she likely enjoys your company, the process of being a mentor (I find I learn as much from my mentees as they do from me), or just wants to give back.  If they are looking for something in return then I’d honestly question the integrity of the advice as this looks more like a transactional relationship.

• Feedback - is one thing but meaningful feedback is key.  Does your mentor challenge your thought patterns or your key assumptions?  Or do they just agree with you and sugar coat everything?  A skilled mentor will take you out of your comfort zone but do so in such a way that  you walk away inspired, not defeated or demoralized.

Two of my early mentors:

• Mike Flood - probably the first person whose advice I constantly sought.  You just popped into my life and you became a pillar of support after my brother passed away.  We don’t keep in touch as much these days but I am looking forward to our19th annual Boxing Day run at Burnaby Lake this year.  Truth be told, I am actually looking forward to the post-run coffee and conversation more than the run.

• Nigel Fripp - not sure if it was the charming British accent but there was something about the way you gave advice and the way you delivered feedback that resonated with me.  Your willingness to share your knowledge and experience stayed with me, even when I felt like a nobody was so appreciated.  You were also the first person who shared with me your vision for diversity and inclusion.  You were definitely a pioneer in your thinking.  Hope you are enjoying retirement and your grandchildren.