Whether you are dealing with a specific career or work challenge, having a mentor by your side can be a welcome boon, says Sam Patterson, director of The Paraplanning Club.
As paraplanners, we know the profession can be both rewarding and demanding. Whether you’re a new starter navigating CVs and interviews or an experienced paraplanner wondering, “I know I’m good at paraplanning—now what?”, mentorship can provide the clarity and growth you’re seeking.
At The Paraplanner Club, we offer one-to-one mentoring designed specifically for paraplanners, run by paraplanners. Our mentorship programme pairs mentees with seasoned mentors and the goal is simple: to provide support, guidance, and a fresh perspective without any hidden agendas. Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your skills, explore new career opportunities, or simply gain a different point of view, our mentors are here to help.
So why does mentorship matter? While many paraplanners were once focused on gaining qualifications alone, there’s a growing recognition that qualifications alone don’t equate to competence. Experience, insight, and real-world application matter just as much, if not more.
That’s where mentorship comes in. By having a mentor who’s been through the same challenges, you can fast-track your career progression and broaden your horizons.
Our mentees have reported significant improvements in both their confidence and career progression after joining The Paraplanner Club. Many have used the programme to reassess their career paths, expand their responsibilities, and even take on leadership roles. With the support of a mentor, paraplanners often find they’re capable of much more than they initially realised.
Well, what’s stopping you? I can probably guess – time. According to the recent Scottish Widows Paraplanner Survey, 66% of paraplanners cited their workload as a barrier to adding more value in their current roles.
It’s rare to find a paraplanner who avoids taking on extra work, but this often leads to burnout. However, consider this: dedicating just one hour a month to learning from an experienced paraplanner who has likely navigated similar challenges can ultimately save you time.
The insights and strategies gained through mentorship can significantly streamline your work and enhance your efficiency and many of our mentees find they wish they’d started sooner once they experience the benefits. It’s not about adding more to your plate – it’s about working smarter, not harder.
Ready to take the next step? Visit our website to learn more and apply for mentorship today. Alternatively, please feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn.
See Sam at our next Team Leader Seminar on 20 November 2024. Register here.
See also: Paraplanner Club passes 100 mentees mark