Finding A Great Mentor

Tim CalnonLeadership Development

Workgroup, ChairBuffalo, 2013

Dr. Bill CalnonAmerican Dental Association

Immediate Past President

MENTORSHIP

Find Mentor + Top Dental School Priority

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

Benjamin Franklin

Mentor vs. Mentor

• Noun….a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.

• Verb….to serve as a trusted counselor or teacher, especially in occupational settings.

PERSONAL STORY

21

Different needs…….

at…..

different times

Our lives are shaped by the people we interact with on a daily basis.

What attracts you to a potential mentor?

• Common interests• Similar backgrounds• Shared professional direction• Places you in your comfort zone

Characteristics of a good mentor• Good listener• Able to be objective• A giver, not a taker• High road traveler• Big picture perspective• Able to embrace your perspective• In it for the long haul

BE AWARE OF YOUR IMAGE

Dealing with differences

• Agreement not mandatory• Learn from counter perspectives• Articulate concerns in a constructive

manner• Exit relationship with mutual respect

Life-Cycle of Mentoring

• Mentor…fellow colleague…friend• Co-mentors• Reverse roles• Saying good-bye

REINVEST IN OTHERS

Thank you!