One of the things that I have noticed that I have really enjoyed being a part of as a graduate student as well as a former track and field athlete is mentoring. Whether it is showing up and coming athletes the tricks of the track and field trade, or spending time with students on what they can do to improve their overall conceptualization of the public relations field, and how to strategically apply these findings and readings to the real world. However, I believe that there are many different types of mentoring, and as public relations professionals – we have to be skilled in all of these. The three types of mentoring includes: traditional mentoring, peer mentoring, and reverse mentoring.
technology, web pages, on-line newsletters, blogs and social media isn't always easy for those who have not grown up with it
Traditional mentoring: This is where you are at a position where you see an emerging student or professional come up in the ranks and are interested in learning more about the field, but also growing as a person. What is key is to make sure that you provide these individuals with your insights and own experiences to help them in their own personal journey. I always think about what I wanted to know when I was a track and field athlete or an undergraduate or graduate student. Plus, I do look to other professionals and professors for their advice and guidance as well. Traditional mentoring is absolutely key for professionals and academic professionals.
Peer mentoring: I have found this out during my time here at Tennessee that as a fourth year doctoral student – I am considered to be one of the “old” people (I call it being vintage :D) – but experience does play a huge part in advising rising PhD students or Master’s students. Whether it is a discussion about classes to research to teaching – it is all important. Taking the time to meet with people over coffee or lunch, ask them how things are going, and see what suggestions or insights you may have. I was very lucky to have my friend Angela during my first year at UT – she was a fabulous friend and helped me a lot! I have tried to pay it forward to my other friends at UT as well.
Reverse Mentoring: During my time here in the PhD program, I have run into the new phenomenon corporations and other public relations professionals are discussing in relations to educating others about the new technology. The roles of mentoring have been flipped, and there have been times where I have been brought into classes to discuss social media or online reputation management to discuss not only with students, but with the professors as well. This can also lead to brown bag sessions, sending people articles on new research or white papers in the area, and being available to talk with other students and professors about what is going on with new technology. It has been a great learning experience for me, and has helped me become a more effective scholar and PR professional. My philosophy is – you can learn from anyone – you just have to take a step back and listen and learn.
So, these are just the type of these mentoring situations you all might be faced in your job, school, or upcoming internship or PR position. What is important is to look at the culture you are in, determine whether or not mentoring is there at the senior level, peer level, or you will be looked at as a mentor. You have to be prepared and aware of these various situations. I believe that mentoring is the key to success at any organization or corporation – and it benefits everyone.
These are just a few of my thoughts on the subject. Hope you all have a wonderful day and Happy Thanksgiving!
Best Wishes,
Karen
0 Comments