I spent another night with my head in my doctoral studies and woke up this morning with the quote in my head from Benjamin Franklin. “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”
This timeless quote highlights the transformative power of active learning and guidance in nurturing true competence. In the evolving job market in Australia, securing a job is just the first step for young people leaving school. The journey that follows often determines the trajectory of their entire career. It’s not just about finding a job in order for a young person to succeed in starting their career.
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in this journey. More than just a guiding hand, a mentor provides wisdom, networking opportunities, and the kind of personal and professional development that isn’t always available through traditional education or entry-level employment alone.
In Australia, the importance of mentorship is backed by compelling academic data. Research from a wide range of academic studies draw a similar conclusion that shows mentored individuals are more likely to receive higher starting salaries and promotions than those without mentors.
There is consistent research that shows that young professionals who received mentorship felt more confident in their career paths and were twice as likely to stay with their current employer.
The presence of a mentor transforms the daunting challenge of navigating a new work environment into an opportunity for growth and learning. Mentors help bridge the gap between academic education and practical workplace demands, ensuring that young professionals are not just surviving but thriving in their new roles.
To all young people embarking on their careers, seek out mentors who inspire and challenge you.
To the experience professionals, consider becoming a mentor to pass on your invaluable knowledge and experience. The investment you make today in building a supportive and educational relationship can develop the leaders of tomorrow.
We need to ensure that every young person starting their career is not just a job but a stepping stone to greater learning and success. 
