Overcoming Ageism (HBR Women at Work Series)

13

Mentorship Goes Both Ways

by Cynthia J. Young

When I started my career as a sailor in the U.S. Navy, I knew I had to build a good rapport with my seniors to climb the ranks. The hierarchical nature of the job taught me that building strong relationships with my manager and more seasoned colleagues was critical to my growth and development. As I grew in my career, I also learned to guide those who enlisted after me. For a long time, that’s all mentorship was to me—a linear relationship where seniors taught, supported, and advocated for their juniors.

A few years ago, however, my perspective changed. After retiring from service, I started my first stint in the corporate sector as a consultant. I was fortunate to have found a mentor in Bob, ...