Mentorship, More Important Than Ever

Young professionals require more collaboration and communication with leadership, both in choosing and staying with a company. The trend has made mentorship programs more important than ever before. New recruits are not only considering mentorship programs when applying to companies, but young professionals are actively looking for mentors to guide them through the onset of their career.

“Today’s young professionals are highly inclusive and demand more collaborative opportunities from leadership than previous generations, which means mentorship is more important than ever—especially in today’s highly competitive market,” Jana Turner, a principal at RETS Associates, tells GlobeSt.com.

According to Turner, young professionals start looking for a mentor within their company first. “Young professionals should first look within their own companies to find a mentor who is successful and displays a work ethic, style and productivity they admire,” says Turner. “This mentor should have a proven track record of success and a willingness to invest the time in showing someone else the ropes. If they have written books or given presentations that are pertinent to the industry, read and study the information.”

While companies should put in an effort to develop and foster mentor programs, the relationship is a two-way street. “If an executive is speaking at a conference, attend their presentation and ask questions,” says Turner. “Make sure you are willing to do your homework and don’t expect someone to hold your hand. Demonstrating your eagerness to learn and your dedication to do what it takes to be successful will be especially attractive to a potential mentor.”

For companies without mentorship programs, Turner recommends that young professionals join an industry organization for mentorship as well. “When you are networking, you’ll often hear someone’s name come up time and time again. Reach out and introduce yourself to that person and ask if they’d be willing to meet with you,” she says.

Ultimately, mentorship programs, even if time consuming to start, are a huge benefit, cultivating stronger, better brokers and professionals. “The business of commercial real estate is not just about buying and selling properties. It’s about selling yourself as a trustworthy, smart and dedicated resource who is willing to move mountains to make things happen,” says Turner. “Finding a mentor will require you to do the research and heavy lifting to forge a connection, and in doing so, you will also learn valuable skills in developing meaningful business relationships.”