In the past two posts, we’ve discussed the benefits of cross-mentoring between the generations and some tactics for implementing this practice within your organization.
In this post, we’ll take a look at how to engage veteran contributors in this kind of effort. We’ll also explore how to convince emerging professionals that they have something to share as well and the best ways for doing so.
Let’s begin with veteran contributors:
Ask them what they think they they’d like to learn from the experience. We live in a world of mistaken assumptions. Many time veteran contributors are anxious to learn new technology and other skills but are too busy to take the time. Cross-mentoring will provide them with the perfect opportunity.
Remind them of the benefits they’ve received from those who came before them. While many will acknowledge the value of insights they have learned from others, it never hurts to remind veteran contributors of the obligation of assisting those getting started. In some cases, they may even be shy about engaging young people for fear of not knowing how to. A cross-mentoring program provides them with a formal opportunity.
Offer them options. Most days are packed solid for many long-time contributors, so finding the time to engage can be difficult. Allowing them to choose the way they would like to engage may be the barrier you can help them overcome.
Help them identify what they have to offer veteran contributors. While some emerging contributors are confident and clear in their skills and direction, most are not. Provide them with an opportunity to identify the skills and insights that they might be able to share with someone who has been in the organization for a long time. This does not have to be focused on technology, although that is certainly an option. Simply providing insights into the desires, work styles, expectations and values of their age peers can be very helpful to a senior manager who is trying to connect with those individuals.
Reinforce the benefits of connections with those who have come before. Some young professionals posses the mistaken assumption that veteran contributors possess nothing but out-of-date information. They forget about the nuances and wisdom these individuals have developed over time. Helping emerging contributors to understand the value of connecting with those who can share this wisdom will serve to engage the ones who care.
Provide introductions. There can be nothing more powerful than an introduction to someone who can have a positive influence on your career. While many people shrink from this because it can be intimidating, those who embrace these opportunities will be the leaders of tomorrow. Participating in a cross-mentoring program is a great way to make these introductions and involve these young contributors in the organization’s future.