ARE YOU A THREAT TO YOUR BOSS?

          Today's mentoring tip is about the relationship that mentors have with their employers. We recognize the fact that folks who are mentors also have a life beyond their mentoring aspirations; they have a job. What relationship building characteristics are most beneficial when you are on the job?

          The most important thing you can ever do is become a threat to your boss. No, I am not telling you to abuse or hurt them! If you are going the extra mile in the function of your responsibilities, it may be possible for you to be recognized as a "go-getter" who is worthy of advancement. Ask yourself some hard questions and see if you fill the bill as a "Boss-threat". The following list of "thinking-points" are designed to give you some thoughts to chew on.

• Loyalty - Are you loyal to incompetency? There are incompetent bosses in the world - be loyal to them. This means that you do not undermine them by talking behind their back. You will not be viewed as an aspiring leader if you use finger-pointing instead of idea creation. Serve your boss, honor your boss and complement your boss - honestly.
• Extra Miles - This is not a synonym for overtime! Do you do more than what's expected of you? You may not feel like your efforts have been recognized but you reap what you sow. That's a guaranteed principle of life. Serving without expectation is like dropping a seed in the ground. Have you ever heard the sound of seed being dropped in the ground? Of course you haven't because there is no sound! The seed is so small and the soil so soft that there is no sound. Don't expect the sound of "thank you" for going the extra mile.
• Put the Company First - This may not be your dream job but it pays your bills. Act as if it is your dream job and life will be easier as long as you are employed there. Be alert for opportunities to help you boss become more successful in his role as a leader.
• Transparency - You may have some initiatives of your own that you are working on. Ask yourself if this is something that your boss should know about. Keeping secrets may give the impression that you are being dishonest or working on a project that has not been approved by your boss.

A good Mentor puts other folks first and serves them as an "Extra-miler!"

Thanks for your time. 
Go do something nice for somebody.

Bob Kuebler

Founder / Mentor Force

Mentor Force is an organization of initiators.
We help young people who are at risk of leading impoverished and violent lives.
We teach teachers, mentors and youth leaders how to build healthy relationships that make young people feel valued. Our goal is to ensure that every student has the benefit of being guided by a Mentor. If we can help you reach your potential as a Mentoring organization please contact us:  

716-830-8240 or mentorforcebuffalo@gmail.com. www.youthwithapurpose.org

We are available for school assemblies and educator conferences