Mentor
It is good to have a mentor that has been on the journey the mentee would like to go on. This allows the mentee and mentor to connect on a different level, such as having the same likes and dislikes. The mentee should feel comfortable with the mentor to be honest and receive positive and negative feedback knowing the mentor only wants the best (1). I personally feel like everyone should have a mentor based on the journey to ask for advice, clarification, or just vent. This could help the mentor and mentee grow as individuals from helping one another.
Leadership traits
The reading stated that the best leadership trait to have is to be self-aware. Tanmay Vora, the author of “In Collaboration” stated that “self-awareness is a continuous and growing understanding of one’s strengths, weaknesses, emotions, moods, values, attitudes and personality traits” (3). I personally feel that if a person considers themselves a good leader, they will acquire this trait. Leaders who are self-aware are always trying to build not only themselves, but their team around them. This leader will ensure that the team will succeed together, and if the leader is falling short, he/she does not have a problem owing it. From the characteristics, above as a leader, I lack understanding my team weaknesses. To be effective in a team I know I should work on that to succeed as a leader.
Feedback
I was in management for four years, and giving positive or negative feedback is necessary. Everyone is open to receive positive feedback, but when giving negative feedback it can be challenging. First always know the person that is receiving he negative feedback. For example, if the person gets offended easily, pull them aside to avoid being shamed or singled out. It also good to practice how to deliver the message, so it will not be taken out of context (2). As a manager, I would give feedback, positive/negative to the team together. When giving feedback to an individual, I would mix the good with the back like the article suggested. I also try to be straight to the point, but not harsh as of if they are beneath me. Giving and receiving feedback in in professional atmospheres can be critical to a career, so it is always good to know how to understand and take both with an open mind.
References
[1] “Mentoring Guides for Students.” UW Graduate School, grad.uw.edu/for-students-and-post-docs/core-programs/mentoring/mentoring-guides-for-students/.
[2] Meyer, Erin. “Giving Negative Feedback Across Cultures.” INSEAD Knowledge, 16 Sept. 2015, knowledge.insead.edu/blog/insead-blog/giving-negative-feedback-across-cultures-4259.
[3] Vora, Tanmay. “Indispensable Traits of a Collaborative Leader: Part 3.” Tanmay Vora, 12 May 2014, qaspire.com/2014/05/11/indispensable-traits-of-a-collaborative-leader-part-3/.
