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The VALUE of MENTORS for GROWTH Earlier in the week, I met up with a business friend for a coffee, and during our conversation, the topic of whether or not one should have a mentor came up. He shared with me his peak business or his personal successes generally came about faster, when he was either in the care of a mentor or he was in a Mastermind group in those times. Very interesting you'd agree? In the arts, it is accepted that a young person learns the trade best when studying with a master. In business, the importance of having a mentored relationship for a professional’s development has been documented.     What has not been clear is how prevalent that relationship is in business and to what degree it contributes measurably to people's satisfaction at work.   Extensive surveys of top executives in Fortune 500 companies have found that nearly two-thirds of the respondents had a mentor and that the number of these relationships is growing.   It was also revealed that those who have had mentors earned more money from a younger age and are happier with their career progress, than those who didn’t have a mentor.   Since the early days of the Greek poet Homer, Homer’s “faithful and wise” Mentor, first advised Odysseus, or Merlyn, the young King Arthur, wise men have counselled, taught, coached, and sponsored the young.   Mentors and protégés have existed in philosophy, the arts and letters, the military, and even professional sports. However, in the business world, the importance and existence of mentors have been largely unheralded.   Only recently have business people and researchers recognised mentors' vital role in developing corporation executives.   In The Seasons of a Man’s Life, Daniel J. Levinson describes the importance of mentors and mentoring during an adult’s development.   Levinson observes that mentor relationships occur often in the work setting.   Donald S. Perkins, chairman and chief executive officer of the Jewel Group of Companies, has said, “Everyone who succeeds has had a mentor or mentors.”   Has every successful executive had a mentor?   How prevalent are these relationships in business?   In the current world's competitiveness, is it of benefit to us to engage in a close relationship with a mentor and or to join a Mastermind group? YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT IS!!

Blog 0.3: Mentoring and Company Size Use the Mentor’s experience and guidance to achieve your Goals depending upon your and company requirements!” Mentoring is not one formula suitable for all. Mentoring requirements for different size of the companies are different, and so also for CEO’s running those companies. For a startup the CEO does the job of all functions, Founder, Marketing, Development, HR, Finance and all. So the Mentor for a Startup company should understand the challenges of the CEO and be able to advise him/ her accordingly. Mentor should be able to warn against the pitfalls expected for a startup company. Small to MSME, the CEO still has to manage everything closely, but the main difference is that he/ she has more support from other professionals, partners. Mentoring can be incredibly valuable for small companies, in charting their direction for growth, against challenges such as competition from large companies, people retention issues, developing future leaders, Networking to spread the company name, and get opportunities to be invited to speak at forums about your company and your achievements. xi.         Mentoring fosters growth, engagement, and a positive work environment, making it a valuable practice for small companies. Large Companies CEO has a totally different focus. He/ she has to take care of key Customers, growing/ maintaining Company Image, ensuring Financial and other Compliances, Handle Financial Analysts and their questions. The CEO has to constantly plan the Company strategy going forward and ensure that the Company Structure and Policies for People Management are set in the right direction. In addition, the CEO has to manage key people appointments, Managing the press, managing the Board, and if listed manging that. Thus, the approach, attitude and learning expectations are different for companies at different stage of development. Mentors and Mentees need to understand and focus themselves accordingly. Please feel free to ask questions and make comments so that the idea of mentoring is clearer?

Nurturing Potential: The Role of a Mentor The essence of leadership extends beyond mere authority and command. It embodies a commitment to fostering growth, empowering individuals, and inspiring greatness. In the intricate tapestry of human development, mentors play a pivotal role, weaving threads of guidance, support, and belief. They are the catalysts who ignite the spark within, propelling individuals towards their full potential. A true mentor is more than just a coach or a trainer. They are a confidant, a supporter, and a friend, often going beyond the call of duty to uplift those they lead. They understand that true leadership is not about wielding power, but about empowering others. They invest time, energy, and resources, not with the expectation of reciprocation, but with the genuine desire to see their mentees succeed. By providing unwavering support and encouragement, mentors create a safe space where individuals can explore their strengths, confront their weaknesses, and embrace their aspirations. They offer constructive criticism, challenge complacency, and celebrate achievements, fostering a growth mindset that is essential for personal and professional development. The impact of a mentor extends far beyond tangible outcomes. It shapes character, instills resilience, and cultivates a sense of purpose. By demonstrating compassion, empathy, and unwavering belief, mentors inspire their mentees to become not just better professionals, but better human beings. In a world that often prioritizes self-interest and competition, the role of a mentor stands as a beacon of hope. They remind us that true success lies not in individual achievement, but in the collective progress of humanity. By nurturing potential, empowering others, and leaving a lasting legacy, mentors become the architects of a brighter future.

The VALUE of having MENTORS for GROWTH! Why is it so crucial for your future? A mentor can provide unbiased advice or opinions by drawing on their vast relevant knowledge and experiences. With these insights, the mentee can better understand what steps they need to take or whether to pursue an idea or walk away. Similarly, a mentor can also listen and advise them on daily concerns, such as workplace conflicts. Earlier in the week, I met up with a business friend for a coffee, and during our conversation, the topic of whether or not one should have a mentor came up. A very successful friend recently shared with me that his peak business or personal successes generally always came about faster when he was under the care of a personal mentor or in a Mastermind group. Very interesting, you'd agree? In the arts, it is accepted that a young musician learns their trade best when studying under a master. In business, mentorship is of enormous significance for accelerating a professional’s development. Extensive surveys of top executives in Fortune 500 companies have found that nearly two-thirds of the respondents had a mentor and that the number of these relationships is growing. It was also revealed that those with mentors earned more money from a younger age and were happier with their career progress than those who didn’t have a mentor. Since the early days of the Greek poet Homer, Homer’s “faithful and wise” Mentor first advised Odysseus, or Merlyn, advising a young King Arthur; wise men have counselled, taught, coached, and sponsored the young. Mentors and protégés have existed in philosophy, the arts and letters, the military, and even professional sports. However, in the business world, the importance and existence of mentors have been largely unheralded. Only recently have business people and researchers recognised mentors' vital role in developing corporation executives. In The Seasons of a Man’s Life, Daniel J. Levinson describes the importance of mentors and mentoring during an adult’s development. Levinson observes that mentor relationships occur often in the work setting. Donald S. Perkins, chairman and chief executive officer of the Jewel Group of Companies, has said: “Everyone who succeeds has had a mentor or mentors.” Has every successful executive had a mentor? How prevalent are these relationships in business? In the current competitive world, would it benefit us to engage in a close relationship with a mentor or to join a Mastermind group? YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT WOULD!

STOP PROCRASTINATING: Time is Money! Achieve Your Goals Faster with a Mentor: The Value of Having Mentors for FASTER Growth Why is having a mentor crucial for your success? Mentors provide unbiased guidance and insights from their vast experiences, helping you navigate challenges and make better decisions. A mentor can offer invaluable advice on whether to pursue an idea or walk away, and provide support on everyday concerns like workplace conflicts. Recently, I met with a business friend, and we discussed the importance of having a mentor. He shared that his most tremendous success came much faster when he was guided by a personal mentor or part of a Mastermind group. It’s no secret that mentorship accelerates growth. In the arts, it’s normal for a young musician to learn from a master. In business, mentorship is equally crucial for professionals aiming to rise to the top quickly. Surveys of top executives in Fortune 500 companies reveal that nearly two-thirds had a mentor, and those relationships are growing. Executives with mentors tend to earn more from a younger age and report higher career satisfaction. Historically, mentorship has played a key role in developing leaders, from Homer advising Odysseus to Merlyn guiding King Arthur. Despite its proven impact, the business world has only recently recognized the importance of mentors in shaping successful executives. Here’s why mentorship works: 🟦 Gain Unbiased Advice: Mentors offer perspectives based on their extensive experience, helping you make informed decisions. 🟦 Accelerate Your Growth: A mentor provides shortcuts by sharing proven strategies and avoiding common pitfalls. 🟦 Increase Earnings Potential: Those with mentors often earn more and achieve success faster than those without. 🟦 Receive Support and Guidance: Mentors help you navigate daily challenges and offer encouragement during tough times. 🟦 Build Valuable Connections: Mentors can open doors to networks and opportunities you might not access on your own. In today’s competitive world, having a mentor or joining a SUCCESS group can be a game-changer for your career. Don’t wait—invest in mentorship and accelerate your path to success!

Mentorship Isn’t Magic—It’s a Strategic Partnership In my last post, I shared what a mentor does (and doesn’t) do to unlock momentum for your business. Today, I want to dig deeper into why mentorship works—and why it’s not about quick fixes or magic formulas. The truth? The best mentorship partnerships combine guidance, structure, and accountability with your hard work and commitment. Here’s what separates mentorship from other types of support: 1. It’s Customized to Your Growth Journey No two businesses are the same, and cookie-cutter advice won’t get you where you want to go. A mentor helps you identify: The bottlenecks unique to your business. Opportunities you may not see. The specific steps to bridge the gap between your vision and execution. 2. It’s Focused on Long-Term Wins Mentorship isn’t about quick hacks—it’s about sustainable strategies that build resilience. You might not see results overnight, but the systems and mindset shifts you develop will serve you for years. 3. It’s a Confidence Builder Great mentors don’t just teach you how to solve problems. They help you develop the confidence to solve them on your own. The result? You become a better leader, decision-maker, and strategist. The Expert’s Take After years of mentoring business leaders, I’ve noticed a common pattern: The businesses that thrive under mentorship are the ones willing to put in the work, stay open to feedback, and take ownership of their growth. Is that you? If you’re ready to take action, mentorship could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. What’s Your Next Step? 💡 What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in your business right now? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to offer a fresh perspective. Or if you’re ready to dive into the Momentum Mastery Framework, let’s chat about how we can work togetherhttps://lnkd.in/gB39JNtd

The Role of Mentors in Personal Growth A mentorship is a professional relationship where someone with more experience or knowledge guides someone with less. A mentor can come from any walk of life and any age, but the key is that they have critical experience you can draw upon. More importantly, they are farther along in their race and have faced challenges similar to those you’re up against, offering seasoned advice. Mentors are usually older, as gaining experience takes time, but this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. Especially in fields like technology or social movements, younger mentors can provide invaluable insights. When seeking a mentor, consider the risk of competition. A mentor too close in age or experience might foster competitiveness. You want someone who has succeeded in overcoming the hurdles you face and can look back with satisfaction at your efforts. Here’s who might qualify as mentors: 1. Friends: You already have a good relationship, with trust and dedication to each other. The downside is balancing the mentor-student dynamic with your original friendship. 2. Professional Network: Former employers, bosses, and senior colleagues you admire. These connections can easily adopt a teacher-student relationship reflecting your past work relationship. 3. Teachers: High school or university teachers who recognized your potential. I had a professor who was tough on me because he saw talent. I later realized he was a mentor, helping me see my potential. 4. Field Experts: Ideally, a mentor with direct experience in your field. However, great mentorship can also come from friends or colleagues in other fields. Lessons are often similar across industries, and different perspectives can provide valuable insights. 5. Authors: Many entrepreneurs consider authors mentors. Personally, many of my mentors are authors I’ve never met but whose work inspires me. I’ve reached out to some through social media, sometimes resulting in one-to-one chats. Sharing how their work inspired me and the outcomes has often led to additional help beyond their books. Building a network and leveraging mentors can provide the support and guidance needed to overcome challenges and achieve success. Surround yourself with the right people, and remember to offer value in return.

Why You Need a Mentor (wherever you are in your business journey) ❓ Ever felt like you've hit a ceiling in your business? ❓ Stuck making the same decisions? ❓ Unsure of the next step towards real growth? You're not alone. Even the most accomplished CEOs and founders grapple with these challenges. That's where mentors come in – the secret weapon for businesses of all sizes, at any stage. Why Mentorship Matters: Think back to the most inspiring leaders you know. Chances are, they had someone who pushed them, challenged their thinking, and offered invaluable guidance. Mentors provide that same kind of support, but specifically tailored to the journey of entrepreneurship. Here's how: 🤔 Fresh Eyes on Familiar Problems: We all get stuck in our own echo chambers. Mentors, with their wealth of experience, can offer a fresh perspective on your challenges. They can spot blind spots you might miss and offer solutions you haven't considered. 🤝 Your Network is Your Net Worth: Building a strong network is crucial for business success. Mentors are often well-connected within their industries, offering access to a network of CEOs, CFOs, and other key players. Leverage these connections to unlock new opportunities and partnerships. 🏢 Culture Architect: Company culture is the invisible force that propels a business forward. A good mentor can help you cultivate a culture of trust, commitment, and innovation – the kind that attracts top talent and fuels long-term growth. 🔎 Decision-Making Powerhouse: Leaders face tough choices every day. A mentor can be your sounding board, helping you weigh options, anticipate risks, and make the most strategic decisions for your business. 🕴 Sharpening Your Management Skills: Building a business is one thing, but leading it to sustained success requires a different skillset. A mentor can help you hone your communication, planning, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills – the cornerstones of effective management. Finding Your Perfect Match: Not all mentors are created equal. The key is to find someone who aligns with your values and goals. Here are some tips: ⏩ Expand Your Network: Attend industry events, connect with established professionals, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn. ⏩ Seek Out Shared Values: Don't just look for someone successful, look for someone who shares your vision and inspires you. ⏩ Be Open & Transparent: Mentorship is a two-way street. Be clear about your goals and what you hope to gain from the relationship. The Ripple Effect of Mentorship: Mentorship isn't a one-time transaction. It's a legacy that keeps growing. The knowledge and guidance you receive today can empower you to mentor others tomorrow, ensuring a continuous cycle of growth and success within your industry. Have you experienced the power of mentorship? Share your story in the comments! Venkatesh Iyer, Vinay Desai, Ratan Rajai, Vijaya Iyer #mentorship #leadership #entrepreneur #business #success #businessmentor

An Alternate Way to Seek Mentorship   Why it matters 🤔: Even the best have mentors. Furthermore, getting excellent mentorship is not easy.   Context  📖: In the initial years of my career, I had few mentors to guide me through my career decisions, workplace problems, and workplace situations. I often relied on my manager, a few colleagues, and family. However, there were times when none of them could guide me through a problem or situation, either because they had never experienced a similar situation before or because there existed a conflict of interest, leaving me with little guidance. Over ten years, with some deliberation and serendipity, I eventually found mentors whom I know, can count on, and am grateful for. More recently, I found a few more within a short span of time by leveraging a concept by Shane Parrish , Author - Clear Thinking, a concept I wish I’d learned sooner. Today, I'd like to share this concept with you for your information and perusal.   Concept 💡: Exemplars, Personal Board of Directors, and Practice 1. Exemplars 🌟: Exemplars exhibit certain skills, traits, values, and patterns of thinking, feeling, and acting that you want to make your own. They can be people you work with, admire, or even those who lived long ago. Exemplars help you navigate the world. Their example becomes your north star. 2. Personal Board of Directors 🧑💼🧑💼🧑💼: Your handpicked group of exemplars; your personal board of directors is never static. You’re always curating the list. 3. Practice 🧘: Create a space in the moment to reflect on what your exemplars would do in your position and then act accordingly. And, that’s it.   Additional thoughts 💭: 1. Getting to know your exemplars better  🤝: If I don’t personally know my exemplar and want to get to know them better, I do three things: follow them on social media (LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram), read their biography (if available), and their books (if they write). 2. How often I use this method ⏰:  I use it in ~20-30% of career/business situations that merit the need for a mentor. It has served me well. 3. Is this method a thing❓: I came across a similar concept by Patrick Bet-David ,author and a multimillionaire entrepreneur. So, it’s definitely a concept worth exploring.   Summary  📋: In instances where you seek mentorship or guidance and have no immediate access to mentors, identify exemplars, add them to your personal board of directors if you haven’t already, reflect on what they’d do in your position, and act accordingly. #mentor #mentorship #alternateways #shaneparrish #patrickbetdavid

What a Mentor Does (and Doesn’t): Unlocking Momentum for Business Success Why do some leaders thrive while others stall—despite having the same resources? Often, the difference lies in mentorship. But not all mentorships are created equal. Here’s what the right mentor does (and doesn’t) to help you gain momentum and scale your business: What a Mentor Does: 🔑 Asks Powerful Questions Great mentors guide you to find answers, not spoon-feed them. Using tools like the Momentum Mastery Framework, they help align your vision, identify bottlenecks, and set actionable goals. Example: What’s your vision-to-action alignment score? 🔑 Builds Clarity and Confidence They transform obstacles into opportunities, ensuring your goals are measurable and achievable. 🔑 Empowers Decision-Making A mentor sharpens your thinking, so you can steer your business confidently. 🔑 Provides Accountability Structured frameworks keep you on track, ensuring steady progress without missing the details. What a Mentor Doesn’t Do: ❌ Hand Over Ready-Made Answers Unlike consultants, mentors empower you to find solutions, building sustainable growth. ❌ Micromanage Mentorship is about creating independence, not dependency. ❌ Take Credit for Wins or Blame for Losses Your success is yours to own; mentors guide, but the outcomes are yours. ❌ Promise Overnight Success True mentorship focuses on long-term growth and resilience. Momentum in Action With the Momentum Mastery Framework, mentors help leaders: ✅ Align their 5-year vision with actionable steps. ✅ Eliminate bottlenecks to create operational efficiencies. ✅ Build scalable revenue streams. ✅ Mitigate risks with proactive strategies. Quick Self-Assessment Rate yourself 1–5: My business has a clear long-term vision. Stakeholders are aligned with our strategy. I consistently evaluate and adapt my market positioning. If your total score is under 12, mentorship could be the game-changer you need. Take the First Step Are you fully leveraging mentorship? Or is it time to bring structured guidance into your growth journey? 💬 Drop a comment or DM "Survey" me and I will send you a survey to complete to rate your business.