Reverse Mentoring

By Dr. Lee J. Colan

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Mentoring is an effective way to pass on experience and knowledge within an organization. Companies in all industries have formal and informal programs designed to hone their talent and sharpen their competitive edge. However, the technology revolution has created an ironic twist to traditional mentoring. Today, it's not uncommon for a young, entry-level worker to have a better understanding of technology or some aspect of the operation than his manager. Hmmm?

As a result, many organizations are shifting into reverse. They're asking front line, shop floor, or young tech-savvy employees to teach the "old dogs" new tricks.

So, even if you don’t have a formal program, try hanging out with your younger staff, even those who might be younger than your own children – a guaranteed eye-opener! You might discover that you are so far out of the loop you can't even see the loop. You can create your own form of reverse mentoring. It could be as simple as asking your children and their friends for feedback on your product/service/idea. Be ready for brutal honesty! If you don't have children accessible, then borrow your friend’s. In either case, the children will feel valued and you will get valuable feedback.

So shift in to reverse and try some reverse mentoring.

© 2009 Lee J. Colan
LAM-001-00265

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