in
Forums
Ok, I am not sure if this is the right forum for this question, but I need some help.
My long time Mentor and a major reason for me moving from Software Developer to VP of a Division is retiring and my company is having a party this coming Friday night. It is not a roast, but there will be time available to anyone that wants to say something. Obviously, I want to say something, but what is expected?, what is appropriate? and any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
I have some thoughts already, so I will post them in another post. I am a little worried that the rest of the company may not appreciate nor care what he has meant to me and my career.
Mentor Retiring
Mark, the montor/mentee relationship is special. Working well, it is such a valuable asset to a mentee's career that I think it would be remiss if you were not honest.
[quote]I am a little worried that the rest of the company may not appreciate nor care what he has meant to me and my career.[/quote]
Taking your statment at face value, perhaps others may have no interest in what you say, however, a public statment of what the relationship has meant to you over the years is perfectly in order. Give credit to someone who has helped you.
Reading between the lines, if your public statment may be seen as a negative by some at your company, my advice is unchanged.
Your mentor is retiring - not dying. Contact should continue if both parties are willing. You may find the mentor's advice is of greater value without the constraints of employment.
Make him proud by publicly stating that he has done more than fill a postion. The personal things matter.
Chris.
Mentor Retiring
Tell a story about your mentor that highlights his humanity. It can be a time he did something that mattered to you, or a funny story, or some such.
Keep it short, and sweet.
John