Early Careerist Corner: Mentorship for Early Careerists

NCHL presents Early Careerist's Corner, a podcast series that is part of the Guide for the Healthcare Early Careerist. It is dedicated to providing information and advice to early careerists as they begin navigate the exciting field of healthcare leadership.

This episode focuses on the concept of mentorship and the value of a mentorship experience. What is a mentorship? | Do I need multiple mentors? | How do I get a mentor? are all questions being answered as Manager of the National Council on Administrative Fellowships, Jen Kvasnicka sits down with Kyle Underwood and Adam Haas from Cleveland Clinic.

• What makes me stand out from my peers?

Kyle: Perspective and purpose. For me, I think I have a clearly defined why for what I want to do, and through that can help others find theirs. This allows for more intentional relationships to be built and being able to bring a level of energy to my work and life that doesn't become lost when the going is hard. With understanding my why, I'm better able to understand diverse perspectives as well as bring mine to the table.

Adam: My enthusiastic and contagious energy that I carry in all that I do. The positive energy and aura that I try to implement in a room creates a space of psychological safety.

• Who needs to know me so I can reach my goals?

Kyle: It comes down to knowing others first and treating others well. This will create a space where people feel respected and valued, and more willing to help you in reaching your goals. Whether it be the EVS worker taking care of the trash to the CEO, being known for the good human and servant leader you are will take you far.

Adam: I truly think it does not matter who knows me – I hope everybody knows me based off of my genuine intentions, passion, and grit towards changing the world as a whole.

• What are my values?

Kyle: Authenticity, integrity and humility. The trifecta will allow you to be heard, understood and most importantly, respected in any room you walk into.

Adam: My values are centered on the ideology of being a change-maker – These include being a servant leader, putting others first, along with being authentic and honest.

• What’s my ultimate career goal?

Kyle: As an early careerist, I'm looking to build out my toolbox of skills and perspectives for navigating the healthcare industry. Long term, I want to be a role where I can empower teams to problem solve, grow and invest in talent, and at the end of day, have fun while changing lives. Too often we chase titles, instead, I encourage everyone to focus on chasing experiences and the titles will come.

Adam: My ultimate career goal is to be a seasoned-leader in all facets of life; this includes in my career, professional development, and in my personal life. Leaning on the network of individuals that have helped mold me and in turn giving back to others through my personal career journey.

• What brings me joy?

Kyle: Seeing the successes of others and championing them!

Adam: Being a friend to others and seeing them smile – A smile can change a day for someone, get them out of mental battle, and enjoy life more. At the end of the day, seeing others happy is all I want!

• What my superpower – the thing I do better than anyone else?

Kyle: Being able to anticipate needs and responses ahead of time. This is helpful when navigating complex problems, and managing different stakeholder interests.

Adam: I believe my superpower is being a thought-partner with all individuals that I am collaborating with. Utilizing my communication and listening skills have served m