July 4, 2014  

Mentoring: Why it Matters

I love this life truth: “You can understand a person’s priorities by looking at their calendar and their checkbook.” Do you agree with this? Time is our most valuable resource; once today has passed, those 24 golden hours have passed forever. Additionally, once you spend your money, whether $10 at lunch or $5 for a box of Girl Scout Cookies, it is possible to earn more and at least replace that money expended.

Having spent almost 9 months overseas between 2013 and 2014, my experience serving with many Soldiers that were born after I graduated from high school, has motivated me to take up the cause of “mentoring Millennials.” Let me tell you a quick story…

His name is Derek. He works for a large employer just south of Nashville TN. Over the past few years, he felt the call to serve. At the tender age of 28, he raised his right hand and has entered the Tennessee National Guard. Why is this noteworthy? Because he has a young family and is taking time away from personal interests to wear the uniform and serve our Nation. I am humbled by the example he has set for others to follow.

Which leads me to my takeaway from today. Based on two recent discussions with Millennials, I hear “loud and clear” the desire for mentorship. Topics can include: financial planning, personal budgeting, obtaining insurance, networking (besides Social Media) and many others.

So, I encourage Baby Boomers and Generation X’ers like myself to reach out to Millennials in your world. Ask them if they would like mentoring. If a Millennial, be strategic and reach out to possible mentors. Both parties will benefit from new perspectives.

Anytime we can help one another, that is a great thing. As my neighbor (also a pastor) said over the weekend at a block pool party: “Neighbors should help themselves; you need to know your neighbors in order to be in a better position to assist when needed.” Some great words of wisdom, practical in all facets of our busy, complicated lives.

About jmartinplumlee

Martin Plumlee is a successful Business Executive, Entrepreneur, Headhunter, Military Officer & Leadership Strategist. With over two decades of education, experience and business success, Martin distinguishes himself as a subject matter expert in Talent Management, Executive Search & Consulting and Outplacement/Transition Services. Martin studies and applies the latest theories on leadership and has taught the subject at the college level during the past 12 months. In June 2012, with lessons learned and a desire to deliver a higher level of service, Martin launched Plumlee & Associates. Martin is a Nashville native, graduating from Hillwood High School with honors in 1990. Seeking a significant challenge and desiring to reach his fullest potential, he graciously accepted an appointment to West Point. Following four challenging and memorable years, he graduated from the US Military Academy in 1994, earning his BS in Economics and a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry. Following almost six years of distinguished service, Martin began his business career by joining the executive recruiting industry with Orion International, a premier Military Leadership Placement firm. He has excelled in recruiting, sales, and management roles with world-class companies such as General Electric, Johnson & Johnson and Robert Half International (RHI) for the past 15 years. Additionally, Martin heeded the call of service to the nation once again in 2008. He entered the Army Reserves and has served with distinction in units from Florida to Tennessee during that time. From April 2013 thru March 2014, Martin served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, with almost nine months in Kuwait.

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