The Transformative Impact of Mentorship on Leadership

What makes a great leader? Is it their technical expertise, their ability to inspire, or their courage to make bold decisions? While all of these are important, I believe there is one often overlooked element that can truly transform a leader’s journey: mentorship.

In a recent podcast series, “Leader Beyond the Stage,” I had the privilege of co-hosting

conversations with inspiring leaders from various walks of life. The episodes explored leadership from fresh perspectives, diving into themes of personal growth, career success, and entrepreneurship. One question I always asked our guests was: “Did you have a mentor during your career, and what advice from them made the biggest impact?”

The answers were fascinating. While not everyone had a mentor, those who did consistently

credited their mentors as pivotal to their success. On the other hand, some guests who didn’t have mentors reflected that they may have achieved even greater heights had they sought guidance earlier in their careers. This recurring theme reinforced something I have always believed: mentorship matters.

My Personal Mentorship Journey

I have been fortunate to mentor many individuals, ranging from young executives to seasoned business leaders. While not all mentorship experiences lead to dramatic success, I have witnessed incredible transformations in those who embrace the process. My passion for mentorship stems from my own experience of having a mentor who shaped the leader I am today.

Early in my career, while working at a multinational organization in a senior role, I had the privilege of being mentored by my supervisor, a remarkable female leader. She didn’t just guide me—she empowered me. She gave me the freedom to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them without fear of criticism. Her approach wasn’t about avoiding failure but about reflecting on missteps and growing stronger because of them.

Her genuine desire to see me succeed created a bond that fueled my determination. I didn’t want to let her down, and that commitment pushed me to become a better leader. Looking back, I realize that her mentorship wasn’t just about advancing my career—it was about helping me discover my potential.

What Makes a Great Mentor?

I have learned that great mentors share one fundamental quality: they genuinely want to see you succeed. This deep-seated commitment often translates into honest and, sometimes, uncomfortable feedback.

I remember receiving candid advice from my mentor that initially made me defensive. It was tough to hear about my blind spots—things I had not noticed or did not want to admit. But when I reflected on her feedback, I realized she was right. Those moments of discomfort were the most valuable because they forced me to grow.

Similarly, as a mentor, I have often given advice that might have seemed too direct or even discouraging at first. But in hindsight, many mentees have told me that these uncomfortable truths were precisely what they needed to hear to move forward.

A great mentor does not need to have all the technical expertise in your field. What matters is their ability to see your potential, highlight your blind spots, and offer guidance with honesty and care.

Do You Really Need a Mentor to Succeed?

Can you succeed without a mentor? Absolutely. Many leaders achieve remarkable success on their own. But could they have achieved even more with a mentor? That is a question worth pondering.

For me, mentorship has been a game-changer. It’s about having someone who believes in you, challenges you, and helps you see things from a perspective you might never have considered. It’s about trust, chemistry, and a shared commitment to growth.

How to Find the Right Mentor?

If you’re seeking a mentor, look for someone who:

• Has your best interests at heart. They should be invested in your growth without a hidden agenda.

• Is honest and constructive. A good mentor will tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear.

• Builds trust and rapport. The mentor-mentee relationship thrives on mutual respect and openness.

  
  

And if you are a leader, consider becoming a mentor yourself. There’s nothing more fulfilling than helping someone else discover their potential.