Rethinking Mentorship: Consider One (Or More) Of These 5 Options

I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for the people who supported me along the way. Mentors in business growth, sales, accounting, parenting, personal finances, cooking, and the list goes on…

We are never too old to mentor and never too young (or busy) to mentor others.

You get what you give. So if you're looking for support, give it. If you got it, pay it forward.

That said, we may look at the term 'mentor' too narrowly. When I think of 'mentorship', I think of 5 distinct ways it takes shape.

1. Traditional Mentorship 
   This is the version most of us envision. It's typically long-term, where a more experienced guide helps someone coming up, is likely somewhat structured, and requires commitment from both parties.
    

2. Co-mentorship (peer-to-peer) 
   A great choice for people who gain value by learning from one another and do so in equal measure. Often veers into accountability, as well.
    

3. Reverse Mentorship 
   Those of a younger generation support those more seasoned. This is for a fresh perspective, generational understanding, and more.
    

4. Mentorship From Afar 
   You don't even need to meet your 'mentor' to glean their wisdom. Books, podcasts, and observing how someone moves through the world: these are great entry points to get the support you need to grow.
    

5. Mentorship Moments 
   In those small windows where you get a chance to ask a question or have a short conversation (think about a conference, a time you get to ask a question for a podcast guest you admire, or are seated next to each other on a plane). These brief, high-impact conversations can shift trajectory.

With mentors, you might have:

• one person who sees the long arc of your career

• a peer who challenges you in real time

• someone younger who shows you what's changing

• voices you return to again and again from afar

• and brief moments of guidance that change everything

You might be some or all of those for others, too.
 

Life is a team sport, and we all need each other. No matter your excuses, you have things to offer and gain. We all have space for at least one of these styles of mentorship.

It doesn't have to be formal to be powerful.

The question isn't 'who is my mentor?' It's both 'where am I under-supported right now and what kind of mentorship would help?', as well as 'how can I share what I have to offer?'

To getting the support you need and giving it, too, Darrah