Do You Really Need a Nonprofit Mentor?

The nonprofit sector is a strong and vibrant community full of people willing to help each other out.

And now more than ever, it’s important to come together and work as allies and mentors.

This is a guest post from expert author John Haydon:

The value of being mentored seems pretty obvious: new skills, confidence, friendship, etc.

And in fact, the research shows that people who are mentored get more job promotions and earn more than people who aren’t.

But mentoring is also great for mentors: networking opportunities, leadership development, and a stronger sense of community.

Pay it Forward?

Jesse Bethke Gomezwas mentored early in his career and is now paying it forward by helping others overcome their fears, have more confidence in their talents, and develop their strengths:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQtcabW8tvY?rel=0&controls=0&showinfo=0]

So yes, nonprofit professionals like Jesse shine when they connect, learn and share with each other. They get stuff done. And they make a bigger impact.

But do you really need a mentor?

Why you need a nonprofit mentor:

Most nonprofit leaders are too stressed out or distracted to find that trusted friend or colleague who’s walked in their shoes.

But allies (mentors, peers, friends) are often essential for success.

Here are a few examples:

• A veteran grant writer offers guidance to a novice grant writer that helps him or her achieve greater results.

• A promising nonprofit start-up founder can connect with an experienced leader who points out blind spots and encourages a drive toward success.

• A newly-hired Development Director is struggling to meet their capital campaign goals. She exceeds that goal with tips from a veteran fundraiser.

Find your nonprofit ally.

Do you have experience or know-how to share with a nonprofit?