Q&A - Problem with a mentor

Guest post by: Keith Ferrazzi
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What I’ve Learned from Dumpster Kids, a Buddhist Monk, and Other Wise Teachers - By Keith Ferrazzi

Here's a tough situation a NeverEatAlone reader is having with his mentor (and that's the first problem -- only having 1 mentor!). My quick two cents follows. Also check out Chapter 29 in Never Eat Alone, "Find Mentors, Find Mentees, Repeat."

Q: I'm 26 years old, and have worked at the same large company for the past 7 years (internships during undergrad and then full time after completing my degree). There is a VP at my company who has always mentored me. He has been my sounding board on everything from work issues to project ideas during my MBA studies.

The relationship has always worked both ways. I've helped him out on projects when he has been in a resource crunch and he's always helped guide me on career decisions. Within the last year, he has become very removed from our mentor/mentee relationship. I'm confident that it's because of his increased responsibility and workload.

That said, do I need to look for a new mentor? Do you recommend developing multiple mentoring relationships so I don't get into this problem again? I feel like my mentor only takes an interest in my career when he's in one of those resource crunches. I know we're all busy, but I would like to think a good mentor makes time. In the context of your nepotism article, this person used to be good about the care element, but not anymore. Any suggestions?
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A: I have many mentors, and you should, too. Be grateful for the relationship you have with each. Resentments or regrets are a waste of emotional energy.

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What I’ve Learned from Dumpster Kids, a Buddhist Monk, and Other Wise Teachers - By Keith Ferrazzi

About the Author: Keith Ferrazzi

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Widely hailed as one of the world’s most “connected” people, Keith Ferrazzi is the author of Never Eat Alone, the international bestselling book about building relationships for success. Ferrazzi is also an acclaimed speaker and CEO of Ferrazzi Greenlight, a consulting and professional development firm that helps organizations drive growth through relationships. Earlier in his career, he was chief marketing officer at Deloitte Consulting and the youngest to be tapped for partner in the firm's history. Then, upon joining Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Ferrazzi was the youngest CMO in the Fortune 500. He also served as CEO of YaYa Media before founding Ferrazzi Greenlight.
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Q&A - Problem with a mentor

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