In a recent session on mentorship’s role in advancing women’s careers in partnerships, Laura Washington and Jen Waltz led a thought-provoking discussion with leaders Liz Crawford, Delya Jansen, and Joslyn Jones. They shared personal stories, highlighted key qualities of mentor-mentee relationships, and explored strategies for overcoming challenges specific to women in partnerships.
Mentorship Journeys and Career Growth
Liz reflected on her mentor, who was also her boss, pushing her to excel, which led to her managing a partner program at a tech company. Delya spoke of a pivotal career moment guided by mentorship, inspiring him to create internship opportunities for women. Joslyn described how a mentorship opportunity with an Australian partner propelled her to leadership roles, such as Director of Global Markets and leading brand and marketing efforts.
Key Qualities of Effective Mentorship
The panel emphasized that effective mentor-mentee relationships require trust, humility, and adaptability. Delya highlighted the importance of learning from mentees and remaining open: “Invite them to teach me.” Joslyn stressed the need for nurturing long-term relationships built on trust, even when interactions are spaced out, while Liz pointed out that mentors should inspire and help mentees see their potential. Defining trust within each unique relationship was seen as critical.
Addressing Unique Challenges
The panelists discussed how to navigate challenges faced by women in partnerships, such as salary negotiations and leadership advancement. Joslyn advised removing emotion from these discussions and focusing on business impact first, with personal needs coming second. This approach, she explained, makes for a more compelling and strategic case.
Building a Legacy of Empowerment
The session was a powerful reminder of the impact mentorship has in shaping not just careers, but entire communities. By fostering trust, sharing knowledge, and elevating each other, these leaders are paving the way for more inclusive, empowered spaces in partnerships. As the conversation evolves, the importance of collective support, thoughtful mentorship, and advocacy remains at the heart of driving meaningful change. View the presentation here.
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