Time We Discuss: Becoming a Mentor with Doug Lawrence

Watch/Listen to this Episode Becoming a Mentor with Doug Lawrence

Work as a Mentor; Host of Time We Discuss is giving two thumbs up. Picture of guest Doug Lawrence in the corner. Background shows a person standing and helping someone climbing a ladder.

Featured in this episode of Time We Discuss is Doug Lawrence, a seasoned mentor with experience in various industries, including corporate environments, entrepreneurship, and mental health. He shares insights on the role of a mentor, the ways one can become a mentor, and the impact mentoring has on personal and professional growth.

Doug explains that mentorship can take different forms, from structured programs within organizations to informal relationships that develop through networking and referrals. He highlights his involvement in the Sir Richard Branson Entrepreneur Program in the Caribbean, where he volunteers to help young entrepreneurs build their businesses. Additionally, he works in the healthcare sector, serving as a support system for individuals navigating long gaps between professional counseling sessions.

A key point in the conversation is the distinction between paid and volunteer mentorship. Doug notes that while mentorship at the corporate executive level often comes with financial compensation, grassroots-level mentoring is more commonly done pro bono. His philosophy revolves around inclusivity—he does not turn away individuals who cannot afford his services and instead finds ways to support them.

Doug elaborates on the broader scope of mentoring beyond just career development. He emphasizes that mentoring also addresses self-esteem, self-worth, and personal challenges, which are equally important for growth. He believes mentoring is a two-way, trust-based relationship where both mentor and mentee learn from each other.

For those seeking mentorship, Doug advises reaching out to business associations, networking groups, and established mentors in their industry. He reassures mentees that they do not necessarily need an industry-specific mentor; instead, they should look for someone with transferable life experiences and a strong mentoring skill set.

The conversation also touches on the longevity of mentoring relationships. Doug shares that some of his mentees have been with him for over seven years. The duration depends on the depth of the relationship and the mentee's evolving needs. In some cases, mentoring continues indefinitely as mentees seek ongoing guidance throughout different stages of their careers.

Regarding his professional experience, Doug details how he secures mentorship contracts with organizations. Companies typically reach out to him for guidance, and he first offers a trial period to assess compatibility before entering a formal agreement. His credibility is strengthened by his international mentoring certification, which adheres to ISO standards.

Doug also discusses the intersection of mentoring and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing when a mentee needs professional help and drawing a clear line between mentoring and therapy. He shares a personal anecdote where he identified a mentee struggling with mental health issues and encouraged them to seek professional assistance while continuing to provide business-related guidance.

In addition to mentoring, Doug is an author. His first book, The Gift of Mentoring, was self-published, while his second book, You Are Not Alone, became an Amazon bestseller. His upcoming book, The Silent Pandemic, explores the connection between cancer, mental health, mentoring, and grief.

Doug concludes by reaffirming his commitment to advancing mentorship, particularly in mental health support. He acknowledges the encouragement he receives from peers and remains dedicated to making a positive impact.

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