“Tech Connects,” Dice’s podcast, digs into the tech hiring, recruiting, and career topics that matter to you. Subscribe on ACast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Amazon Podcasts, and YouTube!
The next episode of the Tech Connects podcast is here! Every month, we have great guests who share their expertise about the current state of the tech careers world, from the hottest tech skills to the state of the tech hiring market to what companies are doing to retain and attract top talent.
Our next guest is Errol Pierre, who’s a healthcare executive, professor, public speaker and author. He is a Senior VP at one of the most notable healthcare nonprofits in New York, and was previously COO at Empire BlueCross BlueShield. His recent book, “The Way Up,” breaks down how underrepresented groups from all walks of life can grow to their full potential and climb up the corporate ladder. He’s also a huge advocate for mentoring, and I wanted to speak with him about how mentorship had changed his life, and how anyone can use a mentor to achieve their goals. Let’s listen in!
It’s fascinating to talk to Errol because he’s thought so deeply about mentorship and how it can impact careers. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re seeking a mentor, or if you’re a tech pro who feels ready to mentor others who are earlier in their career.
First, it’s important for a mentor and mentee to have chemistry. If you’re seeking a mentor, make sure what they’re saying really resonates with you, and that you feel at ease while talking with them. As you deepen your relationship, your mentor may come to you with issues and questions of their own; take the time to listen and give them the best possible advice.
Second, you’re not going to have one mentor (or mentee) throughout your career. People grow and evolve, and you should pause to evaluate your mentoring relationship every so often. It’s perfectly normal to move on if you feel it’s time—but make sure to never lose touch with someone who’s helped you so much.
Third, you’re always potentially ready to mentor someone, just as long as you can devote the proper time and resources to the relationship. You don’t need to be a CEO or CTO to help someone along in their career; if you’re able to answer their questions and help them navigate at least some professional issues, you can mentor.
And with that, we’ll see you next time—and remember, Dice is your best resource to find the tech talent you need to fill your open roles, and for technologists, the best place to grow your tech career.
