Deloitte Women’s Leadership Launch and the value of female mentorship

October 15, 2018

Many female professionals are shattering the once impenetrable glass ceiling, breaking down barriers, and coming to the forefront as strong leaders. This is happening across varying industries including professional services, technology, manufacturing, and in the political arena.

Many outstanding male and female leaders, have credited their success to mentoring and leadership programs designed to foster growth and professional development. They also understand the value that it can provide to the younger generation of aspiring professionals.

Here we’ve shared a few insights on understanding the value of mentorship and a few thoughts to consider when seeking out a mentor.
 

• Understand the role of a mentor

“A mentor is an individual who offers advice and support, the individual that asks you the key questions that can help you self-discover your path to success,” says Carol Larson, audit partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP. Mentorship can be a relationship between a professional at any level, but typically more seasoned than the mentee, and someone who is seeking knowledge. “Having strong mentors can encourage individuals to broaden their mindset and take ownership of their careers.”

• Mentorship relationships often develop organically

Mentorship relationships can start with a mutual connection. Find someone whose career path aligns with your goals. Look out for leaders in your organization that you aspire to emulate, share your ideas on critical projects or volunteer for initiatives important to your potential mentor. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your peers or a tenured employee. Ask questions and get to know your colleagues. You will find that connecting with people can be a key factor in accelerating your career.

• Be clear on your goals and what you would like to achieve

Assess what you would want to gain from your relationship with your mentor. Outline the specific goals you would like to achieve or challenges you are facing and come prepared with thoughtful questions.
 

Mentorship opportunities

Mentors can help to provide career guidance and advice that can be useful for growth and professional development.

At Deloitte mentorship and the empowerment of women in the workplace is encouraged through initiatives such as the Deloitte Women’s Leadership Launch, an event that encourages graduate students to reap the benefits of mentorship through a three-day conference held at Deloitte University in Westlake, Texas.

“The Deloitte Women’s Leadership Launch provides a unique opportunity to support women in their pursuit of success following business school,” shares Terri Cooper, chief inclusion officer at Deloitte Consulting LLP. “In particular, the program strives to help women live life according to the principle of ‘less wishbone, more backbone.'”

The annual event takes place in early January and gives rising female MBA/Masters candidates an opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, mentors, and thought leaders. Through formal and informal mentorship, leadership panels, classroom workshops, and networking activities, attendees are given a first-hand look at the technical skills, critical professional behaviors, standards, and mindsets needed to succeed as a business leader. 

Chart your success

Learn more about the 2019 Deloitte Women’s Leadership Launch and how to apply.

Check out other events and programs such as Deloitte International Women’s Day Conference and our continued sponsorship with Girls Who Code. Each initiative encourages undergraduates, graduate students, young professionals, and high school students respectively, to get involved and reap the benefits of mentorship.