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Mentoring - For me or not for me, that is the question! "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn." – Xunzi (Xun Kuang) From the day you start as a Developer, to the point you achieve your highest career goal your journey is about transformation and that like anything else relies on HELP. Being a good mentor/community contributor will change the lives of others in ways you never even think of. Let me share a thing or two I learnt about being a mentor and helping the community over the years.
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The video presentation titled "Mentoring - For me or not for me, that is the question," features Sameera Gayan discussing the transformative power of mentoring in a developer's career. Gayan shares insights from his extensive experience as a Ruby developer and now an engineering manager, emphasizing the importance of mentoring in fostering growth among junior and mid-level developers. Key points covered in the talk include: - **Importance of Mentoring**: Gayan highlights how mentoring has personally benefited him and illustrates its impact on others’ careers. He stresses that mentoring can be a self-satisfying experience, benefiting both the mentor and the mentee. - **Types of Mentoring**: He categorizes mentoring into structured, ad hoc, and online support, with a focus on long-term structured mentoring for nurturing new talent. - **Creating a Supportive Environment**: Kindness and allowing mentees to learn in a judgment-free space are essential. Gayan advises mentors to frame challenges positively and to be patient as mentees navigate their learning paths. - **Adapting to Learning Styles**: Acknowledging different learning styles is crucial. Mentors should tailor their approach according to how their mentees prefer to learn, fostering engagement and growth. - **Active Listening and Mindfulness**: Mentors should prioritize listening to their mentees and remain mindful of their own distractions. Keeping the dialogue open allows mentees to contribute meaningfully to problem-solving. - **Setting Goals and Celebrating Wins**: Gayan encourages setting achievable milestones for mentees and celebrating their accomplishments, however minor. This not only helps to track progress but also boosts morale. - **Building a Community**: Mentoring also extends to creating a supportive network within organizations, ensuring that junior developers find the help they need from various resources, including establishing buddy systems. - **Final Thoughts on Mentoring**: Gayan concludes by advocating for everyone to embrace mentoring, explaining the deep satisfaction that comes from seeing mentees succeed and grow. He believes that contributing to the community through mentoring is a rewarding experience that fosters a sense of belonging. Overall, the talk serves as a guide for those contemplating the role of a mentor, encouraging participation in mentoring as a way to give back to the developer community while enhancing personal growth.
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