National Mentoring Day: Ignite the Spark Within with Chelsey Baker

In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interview featuring Chelsey Baker, founder of National Mentoring Day. Andy and Chelsey discuss the importance of mentoring and the difference between mentoring and coaching, pointing out that mentoring is about providing answers and sharing expertise, while coaching focuses on specific skills and goals. They explore the benefits of mentoring across all levels, from startups and young entrepreneurs to C-suite executives and students. Chelsey highlights the essential role mentoring plays in fostering confidence, connectedness, and a sense of belonging, especially during times of uncertainty. Andy and Chelsey consider the dynamics of mentor-mentee relationships, discussing the various forms mentoring can take – formal, informal, one-on-one, peer-to-peer, and reverse mentoring. Chelsey stresses the importance of finding the right mentor who can provide both guidance and support. The conversation then shifts to National Mentoring Day, its origins, and how it has grown into a global movement. Chelsey shares her journey, showing how the lack of mentorship resources she initially encountered, inspired her to create National Mentoring Day. Chelsey also shares her "six keys to effective mentoring", which include leading by example, active listening, and fostering a trustworthy and supportive relationship. Chelsey reflects that mentoring ultimately fosters growth, innovation, and confidence, permitting individuals to unlock their full potential. Key takeaways from the episode: Mentoring is for everyone, regardless of age, industry, or career stage. Mentoring provides answers and shares expertise, while coaching focuses on specific skills and goals. Mentoring fosters confidence, connectedness, and a sense of belonging. Effective mentoring relationships are built on trust, active listening, empathy, and guidance. National Mentoring Day encourages organisations, mentors, and mentees to celebrate the power of mentorship. You can get involved in National Mentoring Day by joining the mentoring ask, sharing your mentoring stories, and supporting mentoring initiatives. www.nationalmentoringday.org   Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Chelsey Baker: Website |LinkedIn |X/Twitter Listen to the full episode of this podcast The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring