I want to share my experience participating in a reverse mentoring initiative that Salesforce EMEA piloted some years back. At a high level, reverse mentoring is when a younger or more junior employee mentors a senior leader in an organisation, but it is much more than that. In our case, a handful of members of the EMEA Leadership Team signed up for this programme, where we were matched with key talent in the organisation.
In essence, it is a gateway for senior executives to tap into the wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives of the younger generation. These colleagues, often well-versed in the latest technologies and social media trends, can provide invaluable insights for businesses striving to stay ahead. Moreover, reverse mentoring has the potential to transform the work environment into a more inclusive and collaborative space where every employee feels valued and respected.
Going back to my experience, this is when I met Lieke Hallegraeff 🌏, who was part of the Customer Success organisation. In any mentoring or coaching engagement, both parties always benefit from the exchange of the conversation. Particularly as a mentee in this experience, it was humbling to sit in front of someone who was half my age as I shared my problem statement: the importance of well-being, or in my case, how much I was not paying attention to it.
I still remember the mapping exercise Lieke gave me regarding the amount of time I spent at work, with my family, and on my own well-being, as well as what I thought it should be. When you put pen to paper, it is easy, albeit shocking, to see what needs to change. Once a commitment is made, accountability kicks in and change can happen. It was a simple and powerful exercise that I also ask my own clients today who struggle to have balance in their lives.
My recommendation is clear: introduce reverse mentoring in your organisations. It is a win-win for companies and employees alike. It fosters a culture of mutual learning and respect while helping businesses stay innovative and competitive. It can lead to more effective leadership and decision-making, as well as a more positive and productive work environment for everyone. By understanding the priorities and concerns of younger employees, senior executives can make decisions that are more likely to resonate with the entire workforce, creating a harmonious and thriving workplace.
What about you? It would be great to hear your perspectives and experiences.
Reverse mentoring
