Why mentoring, pride truly matter Published Dec. 9, 2008 By Chief Master Sgt. Trace Edinborough 305th Logistics Readiness Squadron McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- Editor's Note: This article was originally published in March 2007. Pride and mentoring have always been elements of our profession. However, they are becoming increasingly more critical in today's Air force. As we continue to face the challenges of budget cuts, the Global War on Terror, and increased military operations with reduced forces, we must not shrink away from our responsibility to create an atmosphere that encourages people to learn and grow. As mentors, our actions must be unquestionable and our behavior must be beyond reproach at all times so the relationship between mentor and mentee can remain respectful and trustworthy. As our young Airmen look to us for guidance, they must be able to see us wearing our uniforms with pride, maintaining physical fitness and performing our jobs. Mentors must be reliable and organized individuals who are willing to invest time to guide our young people. Being a mentor is not always easy. One must know when to provide comfort and when to be stern. Mentors must also be comfortable enough to share their views and advice without fear of rejection or scorn. They must be capable of empathizing with their mentees and help them develop blueprints for success. Mentoring should be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Mentors receive satisfaction from providing meaningful insights and perspectives to the next generation of leaders. Conversely, mentees receive much-needed support, battle-tested knowledge, a sounding board to test new ideas, and the opportunity to receive candid and constructive feedback. Mentors must be mindful to allow mentees to maintain as much independence as possible. It is imperative that mentees recognize their own strengths and weaknesses and identify exactly what they want from a mentor prior to selecting one. For the mentee, knowing oneself is the crucial first step in selecting the proper mentor. In seeking a mentor, a mentee should choose someone with whom he or she is comfortable. The mentor's beliefs and practices should align with the mentee's core values. It is for this reason that a mentee should always initiate the mentoring relationship. The call for mentors can be answered by any one of us. There are proven veterans in our midst. These journeymen possess an extensive toolbox and are willing and able to share their knowledge. With more years of service than some junior Airmen have had birthdays, mentors of this caliber can assist in navigating careers, which can help the mentee avoid roadblocks and pitfalls. Mentors can also foster career and personal development by helping improve leadership skills to identify and groom future leaders. While already struggling to balance work and life, many people will argue that the investment in mentorship is too great. Other people will answer the initial call, but bow out later claiming that their plates are too full. If your plate is overflowing, take time to re-evaluate because our mission and people need you. Mentoring and pride cannot be afterthoughts, as they are paramount to the success of our organization. Ultimately, failing to prepare our future leaders is a risk our Air Force cannot afford to take. Most of us are capable of being effective mentors; we must remove ourselves from the sidelines and get involved. With proper mentoring, pride becomes indelible. Let's go back to mentoring with pride and put pride into mentoring.