The Art of Mentorship: Growth Happens in the Questions

When people think about mentorship, they often picture a seasoned expert handing down wisdom to a younger colleague from some kind of mountain-top of knowledge. But in my experience, mentorship looks a lot less like a lecture—and a lot more like a conversation. A vulnerable, evolving, honest conversation.

For me, mentorship has never been about having all the answers. In fact, one of the biggest misconceptions is that mentors need to be perfect, polished professionals who’ve got it all figured out. But I’m here to say: I’m still learning. Every day. From the people around me, from the candidates I serve, and from the colleagues I get to work with at Relate Search. And I’ve found that the best mentorship happens when we create space for that learning to be mutual.

Mentorship is a Mindset

It doesn’t always require a formal title or a recurring calendar invite. Mentorship, in its best form, is simply about walking alongside someone. It’s showing up with encouragement, asking the thoughtful questions, and reminding someone of their potential—especially when they don’t fully see it themselves yet.

At its heart, mentorship is a safe space. It’s where you can ask the “dumb” questions, reflect out loud, and be seen for more than just your role or your output. A good mentor doesn’t just give direction—they listen, challenge, support, and celebrate with you.

The Power of Curiosity

One of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to “stay curious and never stop learning.” Your career is a marathon, not a sprint. The people who keep growing are the ones who remain open—to new ideas, new skills, and new perspectives.

That’s how I try to approach mentorship too. I don’t give people all the answers. I ask questions that help them reflect, explore their motivations, and find their own path. Because when someone uncovers their own insight, they own it—and that builds real confidence.

Mentorship in the Messy Middle

In recruiting, and especially in a fast-paced firm like ours, mentorship is more than a professional development tool—it’s a lifeline. There are ups and downs in this industry. It can be mentally exhausting. When I first started, I needed someone to tell me I wasn’t crazy for feeling overwhelmed. I needed someone who had seen the chaos and survived it—and could remind me I would too.

Mentorship offers perspective. It’s how we pass along the lessons learned from both the wins and the stumbles. It’s how we say, “You’ve got this,” and actually mean it.

What I’ve Learned (and Keep Learning)

I didn’t get to where I am alone. Far from it. The woman who first trained me in recruiting over a decade ago has remained a mentor and guiding light in my life through multiple career pivots, relocations, and seasons of change. And while I’ve never had a formal mentor at Relate Search, I credit much of my success—including being named Recruiter of the Year—to the people I work with every day. I learn from my teammates constantly. Whether it’s a new way to phrase something, a different approach to a challenge, or just someone to vent to on a tough day—they’ve all shaped the recruiter (and person) I’ve become.

And now, I try to pay that forward. Because we all have something valuable to share. You don’t need to be ten years into your career to be a mentor. You don’t need to know everything. You just need to be willing to listen, support, and share your truth—even the messy parts.

My Advice for Anyone Looking to Grow

If you’re early in your career, I always recommend finding at least two mentors: one who understands the day-to-day realities of your role, and one who sees the world completely differently than you do. That diversity of thought is what helps you grow in ways you might not expect.

And if you’re hesitant to become a mentor because you don’t feel “ready”—do it anyway. I’ve learned so much from people who are just starting out. Sometimes what feels obvious to you is exactly what someone else needs to hear.

At the end of the day, mentorship is one of the most human things we can do in business. It’s not about hierarchy. It’s about connection. It’s about making space for someone else to grow—and allowing that process to grow you, too.

Because the truth is, none of us really have it all figured out. But together? We just might get a little closer.