True story: last night while catching up with dear friend and colleague, Brad Wurthman, I verbatim told him how annoyed I was with myself. I was annoyed because my current schedule doesn't leave me any time to breathe, I attempt to shut my door at work to be productive work yet students (and co-workers) still walk into my office, and that I officially over-sold myself with "other duties as assigned" and side projects.
We could have made a drinking game with the amount of times I mentioned the word "busy." Thankfully, we didn't, because it was a Tuesday night and I might forever work on a college campus, but my college days are long gone (sorry not sorry, Marshall Street!).
The point being is it's March (Madness), and EVERYONE IS BUSY. Everyone. You, me, my boss, my students, my mom, my neighbor...we're all busy. So what's imperative when it comes to mentorship, advising, and guiding others is to ensure that we value each other's time.
- For young professionals hoping to connect with someone they admire, know that they hear you, but timing is everything! I am so thankful that I get check-in emails from former students or alumni asking for some guidance, but if that check-in came during (my) crossover season (of academic advising + the summer internship hunt), I most likely won't be able to provide you a thoughtful response for at least one week. Be gracious when reaching out to those that you look up to, but also understanding that it could be a really wild time for them to give you the attention you want and deserve (i.e. any crossover season, a new coach hiring, hosting championships at various venues, conference play beginning, etc.). Do your RESEARCH on them ahead of time, which can absolutely help you when going for that first connection or follow-up; you'll probably have a better response rate and the person you're wishing to chat with would be thrilled that you took the time to care.
- For veterans, if a young professional schedules a time to talk with you in a professional, formal manner, remember how excited they are to talk to you! Schedule accordingly, or be upfront with them (see, our "Be Honest" tip coming full-circle!) from the beginning to let them know you want to help, but there are better dates/times for me to connect with you (if at all - timing just might not be right - we're human, it happens!). If you give them those times/dates, make it happen! If it's easier to only schedule catch up calls during your commute, make that your availability; if texting is easier, let them know.
It's imperative to value each other's time to not just show respect, but to also allow for a productive, beneficial connection to happen.