Invisible Mentor Model – Why Invisible Mentors?
Today I'm going to introduce you to the Invisible Mentor Model. The ideas, examples and achievements of personally aligned role models can provide you with inspiration and stimulation that helps you refine and achieve your goals. That’s one of the reasons why readers love the invisible mentor interviews. Through articles, interviews, books, videos, podcasts, blogs and courses, the advice of successful and accomplished people is shared with you. Ongoing exposure to the works of effective practitioners will help you exercise critical thinking, support the discovery of information about your own abilities, and allow you to formulate theories and strategies.
Additionally, when you connect the ideas from the various types of information you digest, even when they may seem like disparate pieces of information, magic happens. Enhanced strategic thinking and awareness will inspire you to become more innovative and help you uncover creative, effective solutions to professional and personal challenges.
Invisible Mentor Model: Definition of an Invisible Mentor
In yesterday’s blog post, Evolution of an Invisible Mentor, we looked at definitions of invisible mentor that I found online. And I particularly liked the one developed by Gonzaga University.
“An invisible mentor is a role model [who] exhibits positive behaviors, attitudes and values. The invisible mentor may personify a potential future to the protégé or provide an example of how to achieve various career milestones. This type of mentor may not even be aware that she/he is mentoring.” Gonzaga University
“An invisible mentor is a unique leader you can learn things from by observing them from a distance.” Version 1.0 – Avil Beckford
After my latest research on invisible mentoring, and working through the invisible mentor model last summer, I believe it is time to update the definition of an invisible mentor to make it more encompassing.
“An invisible mentor is an accomplished leader whose positive traits, behaviors, and values you emulate by observing and digesting content by and about them, learning from their expertise and experiences to help you better manage and navigate your career.” Version 2.0, Avil Beckford
Getting Started:
- Identify a personal or professional learning goal where mentoring would provide you with value.
- Choose unique leaders (Mentors) whose expertise and life achievement align with your learning goals. But how do you choose the right mentor?
- Select tools and resources that will empower you to reach identified or stated learning goals.
Is Invisible Mentoring for You?
This model works best if you are a motivated, independent learner willing to commit at least three hours per week for a 6-month to 2-year period. Accommodating individual preferences, the program is flexible and allows customization and selection of relevant sections from each stage. Three hours of undisturbed time are desirable, but unrealistic for some people. Think of interstitial learning – learning accomplished during periods of free time.
The 5-Stage Invisible Mentor Learning Model
- Stage One: Identify Your Goal
- Stage Two: The BIG WHY – Mentoring Needs Assessment
- Stage Three: Get Organized
- Stage Four: Get Started – It’s Time to Learn
- Stage Five: Journey to Excellence
In the next installment of the series, we will unpack each stage of the invisible mentor learning model.
Related Posts
Evolution of an Invisible Mentor
Adventures in Learning: DIY Mentoring Program, Episode One
Adventures in Learning: DIY Mentoring Program, Episode Two
Adventures in Learning: DIY Mentoring Program, Episode Three
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