Mentoring Stories

Ian Wiltshire

Ian's Mentoring Story

I don’t think I ever really had a Mentor, at least not in the classical sense. I mean, while I’ve had friends and colleagues that I‘ve asked for advice, I haven’t had anyone that’s been a consistent role model or guided me long term throughout my professional career. But I did have my Dad.

I thought it would be difficult for my dad to give me advice. A stone mason by trade, he’d worked he way up through his employer to deliver some massive public infrastructure projects but, he didn’t know much about the aspects of my profession. He didn’t know much about electronics, computers or the workings of corporate business yet he still always managed to pass on some sage advice.

As a mentor, he wasn’t there to tell me which option to take, or which choice to make. He was there to show me how to consider, how to compare and give me confidence that it was ok to be who I wanted to be.

So, I’d like to share one piece of advice that I received and I think this will resonate with our 21^st century graduates.

“Don’t focus on improving the things you enjoy. They’re already good enough, (that’s why you enjoy them). Instead, focus on improving the things you dislike. There’s often more scope to progress, so it’s a more effective way to increase happiness.”

Mentors are important. My father was able to quickly pass on the knowledge that took him many years to acquire and understand. This transfer of experience certainly helped me to accelerate my own development and I hope that I can support the next generation as they go on to achieving even greater possibilities.