A strong mentor can make a huge difference in the success and failure of any aspiring leader In this episode, Alex sits down with Connor Baskin, a former career coach of the WP Carey School of Business at Arizona State University, to discuss the importance of finding a mentor who aligns with your career goals and values. Connor has influenced hundreds of students in their journey to accomplish and navigate their career aspirations based on his own expertise and their "why."
Discussed in this episode:
6:20
- What is Mentorship?
- A mentor challenges you to ask and think about “why” you are doing what you are doing
- Tied intimately into the light bulb, wow moments - bringing that out through efficient questions
12:40
- Why is it important to ask “why” when applying to jobs and looking for career options?
- Asking what problems do I want to solve is a huge step and figuring out why you are doing what you are doing so you can build a more sustainable path for growth
- “Starting with why do I want to do this thing and what problems do I want to solve is a far more sustainable way to stay engaged in what you are doing” - Connor Baskin
- Asking why takes courage because sometimes you will not find an answer. In this case, that question becomes an opportunity to learn and become better
- “Not knowing your why provides an opportunity to get better, opportunity to know yourself better, and an opportunity to ground yourself in what you do” - Connor Baskin
17:40
- What is Connor's why? How has that inspired him throughout his different careers?
- Make people’s lives easier so they can pursue what they want to do
- There is an empowering excitement that comes with surrounding yourself with people who’s why is aligned with your
22:30
- How do you find a mentor that excited and aligns with you?
- Hold up the mirror and reflect on yourself first to learn how you can show up as a mentee
26:10
- Integrity, commitment, and discipline with yourself - how does this tie into mentorship?
31:15
- How do you know when to and not to listen to your mentor?
33:10
- How do we start the journey of finding our why?
- Biggest key? Get moving and be patient with yourself through the process
