How I benefited from a mentoring relationship

Originally published here -> https://florenceanipa.medium.com/how-i-benefited-from-a-mentoring-relationship-d87455099807

If you are constantly looking for new ways to improve yourself, in the process of figuring out your next steps or maybe you just need some advice and not sure who to turn to, this is for you. You know why? Because there are so many great things I have picked up in my mentee journey that I think everyone should experience.

There are numerous reasons why having a mentor is beneficial to growth at every stage. You might learn about broader career advice, new professional options, recommendations for career progress, or find a mentor who can support you with specific challenges.

The impact of good mentors on young people is often undervalued, particularly among young professionals transitioning into the workforce.

Like many others, I found myself in a position where I needed a clearer insight into my transition as a graduate to the working world in a foreign country; for me, it was a big deal for sure. In my case, I have a diverse background in communication, marketing, and software development and I was not sure how to merge all these skills to fit the job market — at least that’s how I imagined it. So, in my quest for practical assistance and a clearer path, I participated in a mentorship program to help me achieve my career objectives. To be honest, it was my first time taking part in a mentorship program, and I had no idea what to expect. I simply needed a support system to help me bridge the gap between my varied interests and the working world.

My mentor and I had a more informal mentoring relationship. The easy-going approach made it easy for me to express my concerns, and the insights were tremendously beneficial in maintaining constant self-reflection while refining how I approached my career goals. Among the valuable benefits were:

Mentorship programs are empowering for both sides and I wish I had participated much earlier in my life … well, better late than never right? As it turns out, my mentoring relationship has evolved into a mutually rewarding one following the official mentorship program. We are in touch, and I always feel like I can reach out whenever I need to make an important decision.

…considering getting a mentor

If you are considering getting a mentor or are already in a mentorship program, you will get the most out of it if you clearly define what you seek to achieve from the relationship. Mentoring comes in many forms, including networking mentorship, career development mentorship, coaching mentorship, and technical mentorship. So consider your needs carefully and find the type that fits.

Above all, I hope that young people recognize the value of mentorship and actively seek it out.

Written by: Florence Anipa

About Think Africa’s Mentorship program: The program which has so far run in 2019 and 2021 (funded by Moniheli ry), supports unemployed and underemployed foreigners in Finland to find employment or internship opportunities in their field of training. It uniquely combines one-on-one mentor and mentee sessions, with expert-led training sessions and peer-support sessions. This provides participants with networking skills to increase professional contacts, give first-hand guidance from peers and potential employers while supporting self-confidence. New call for the 2022 program coming soon!