When the email about The Global Leadership Mentoring Programme from The Marketing Society hit my inbox, I knew I had to apply. The chance to be partnered up with four brilliant leaders from across the marketing industry, for one-on-one mentoring sessions, felt like a golden opportunity. And something I wanted to be a part of!
After getting a place on the programme, I wanted to ensure I got the most out of the sessions. I recorded a short video for each mentor to introduce myself and highlighted what I hoped to get out of our time together. I knew how much of a commitment each mentor was making, so in return I wanted to show the thought I put into the session and that I was looking forward to the conversations.
Some sessions ended up being virtual, while some were face to face.
Many of the mentors were incredibly generous with their time and went well beyond the planned hour.
Oliver Lester Direct Line Group
And I am incredibly grateful to each mentor (Sabah Naqushbandi, Ali Findlay, Crawford Hollingworth and Andrew Warner) for being so generous with their time, guidance, and perspective.
Careers are a game of snooker
It’s hard to boil down the key outtakes in just 400 words… but there were some genuine surprises. Firstly, a lot of the discussions focused on both the personal and professional. I went in expecting advice on career direction, leadership, and marketing and although I got that in spades, I also found that many of the conversations touched on confidence, decision-making and my personal values. With each mentor the conversations felt honest, open and grounded in real experience.
One of my favourite metaphors was comparing one’s career planning to snooker; it’s not just about dealing with your current shot but setting yourself up for the one after that. The idea of being intentional about what comes next, while still staying flexible, has really stuck with me.
Taking a step back
Another key learning for me was remembering just how important it is to take time out to reflect. These sessions felt like I was getting a career and development MOT by four of the best mechanics in the business! When your head’s down in the day to day of your job, you don’t always spot what’s working or what needs attention. But someone external holding up a mirror, can really help you identify what you need to do to thrive. It reminded me how much value there is in hearing different perspectives from outside your immediate environment.
For anyone considering the programme, without a doubt, I’d say go for it! I came away with clarity, perspective and some valuable advice that will stay with me for a long time. And most of all, I left feeling moved by meeting four incredible people in our marketing community that genuinely wants to see others grow.
Authored by Oliver Lester, Direct Line Brand Team
