The Groundwork Just writing the title gives me anxiety, as the word “pulpit” has a potentially negative connotation and can trigger a defensive reaction. I hope you trust me enough to hear (read) me out. I do not approach this subject with any moral or religious authority.  I have not been perfect (sometimes not even good), am not currently perfect, and will not become perfect.  Nor am I a...

And Hate Them All? Examples Abound It is the racist White guy who truthfully has Black friends.   It is Bob who announced during bible study that he hates White people.  While I am confident his proclamation does not apply to me, I accept his words and believe he generally dislikes White people.     It was the Nazi in charge of deporting Jews to concentration camps who complained that if he...

Here are the “Receipts” Mentees secure the most significant value and express the greatest appreciation of mentorship through their actions. Respectfully listen and carefully consider the information provided or discovered, use what you believe is valuable, and disregard the parts you think are inapplicable or incorrect. Mentors do not expect to be followed like an orchestra conductor but will...

How to Work It Mentees, resist the temptation to implore, “Just give me the answer!”  Outside of specific subject matter expertise or in perilous circumstances requiring a strong hand, mentors should not even recommend a course of action.  You are not a child needing or seeking parental instruction.   There are practical reasons for not feeding you an answer.  First, history has proven I am...

Hiding in Plain Sight You can cast a wider net since specific subject matter expertise or a close personal relationship is not required. A mentor may be a member of your cycling group, a former business colleague, a fellow supporter of your favorite charity, etc.  A mentor is not a prospective client, as the possibility of a business relationship unavoidably casts a pall over the mentee’s...