I
n this month’s cover story, you will find a common theme of “mentoring.” In almost every case, the PGA of America’s national award winners thank their mentors for helping them support their journey personally and professionally.
Many people believe they can succeed independently. However, these national award winners serve as prime examples of how dedicating time to effectively utilize mentors can help them improve every day. Whether it is sharing best practices, learning from a past situation or how to grow in a current job, mentors are there to help pave the way for success.
Here are some best practices when it comes to utilizing your mentors to the fullest:
1. Make It a Regular Thing
Saying that you will connect with your mentor is one thing; but having dedicated time on the calendar regularly is another. Whether weekly, monthly or quarterly, having these phone calls or meet-ups scheduled and blocked off makes it much easier than simply trying to remember to reach out to someone. This type of cadence is a best practice for all of your mentors and your development.
2. The Importance of a Check-In
Sometimes, during one of these scheduled interactions, you may not have anything of significance to discuss. However, this also allows you to address other equally important topics such as how the season is going, how life is going, or a new idea you may have had that was put on the back burner. PGA of America mentors willing to do this truly care about how you are doing, and what has been successful for you recently and in the future.
3. Ask the Hard Questions
Not everything you discuss with your mentor will be easy. Hard questions will and should be brought to their attention. This includes – but is not limited to – negotiating a raise, job offers or difficult situations at your place of employment. Effective mentors will understand your situation and provide honest and clear feedback, whether it is positive or negative. You may discover that one of your mentors has experienced something similar, or knows someone who has. This type of insight can be invalu able to a PGA of America mentee’s ongoing growth.
4. Your Network’s Network
Many PGA of America Professionals recognize the strength of having a network, but they may forget that there are people in their corner with extensive work experience and networks that far surpass their own. Your mentors may be the key to unlocking a whole new network of individuals with which you can also connect. The golf industry is a tight-knit community, and expanding your network and relationships can help guide you and potentially accelerate your career.
5. Practice Gratitude
Reflect on how many mentors you’ve had throughout your career. You may be surprised by the number of people who have positively influenced you over the years and where it has taken you. When you have a moment, reach out and thank them; it will be much appreciated.
Mentors play a crucial role in your growth as a PGA of America Professional. They help accelerate your career and expand your knowledge beyond what you already know. Many PGA of America Professionals would not be where they are today without the guidance of their mentors.
As an action step, contact one of your mentors to schedule a check-in call. Even better, reach out to someone you’ve been mentoring and see how they’re doing – it’s a reminder that mentorship is a two-way street that can open doors to new opportunities.
Joe Doughty, PGA, is a PGA Career Consultant serving the New Jersey and Philadelphia PGA Sections. He can be reached at (551) 815-2683 or jdoughty@pgahq.com.
