318: Effective Mentoring with Ruth Gotian

In this exciting episode, Heather welcomes back Ruth Gotian. This time, Ruth shares insights from her latest book, The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring: A Complete Guide to Effective Mentoring.

Heather and Ruth discuss how mentees can advocate for themselves and highlight their accomplishments. They explore the importance of networking in mentorship, share practical strategies for finding the right mentor, and delve into the dynamics of feedback and critique on the path to success.

Dr. Ruth Gotian is the Chief Learning Officer and an Assistant Professor of Education in Anesthesiology. She is the author of The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skill Set for Peak Business Performance. Remarkably, at age 43, she pursued a doctorate focused on success and wrote The Success Factor during the pandemic while working full-time.

 

In this enlightening episode, you'll learn about:

• Introduction (Elements of Success) -
  In this segment, Ruth introduces the concept of success by outlining the four key elements that contribute to achieving it with Heather. They highlighted that these are derived from interviews with high achievers, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on what defines success and how individuals can harness these elements in their own journeys.

• Networking in Mentorship -
  The discussion between Heather and Ruth focuses on the critical role of networking within mentorship relationships. They both emphasized that effective mentors not only provide guidance but also facilitate connections by introducing their mentees to valuable networks. This access can significantly enhance a mentee's opportunities and professional growth.

• Finding a Mentor -
  Here, they offer practical advice on how to find a mentor. They suggest that individuals should engage in conversations and build relationships organically, rather than actively seeking out a mentor. This approach fosters more genuine connections and can lead to mentorship naturally developing over time.

• Pressure on Mentors -
  Heather and Ruth address the pressure that can be placed on mentors by their mentees. They discuss the importance of mentees being mindful of this pressure and encourage them to seek guidance in a way that doesn't impose obligations on their mentors. It can foster a healthier and more productive mentorship dynamic.

• Feedback and Critique -
  The conversation highlights the significance of receiving constructive feedback and critique as part of personal and professional development. Ruth and Heather draw a parallel to elite athletes, who actively seek feedback from their coaches to improve performance, suggesting that individuals in any field should embrace feedback to enhance their skills and growth.

• Role of Different Types of Support -
  This topic explores the various roles that different types of support can play in an individual's career. Heather and Ruth discuss the distinctions between mentors, coaches, sponsors, and role models, explaining how each contributes uniquely to professional development and success. Understanding these roles can help individuals seek the right kind of support for their specific needs.

 

Ruth’s last episode of The Eleg