4
Rhonda:
Sure. Okay, let’s talk about how to develop more skill
in negotiating.
Coach:
Negotiating? Well, absolutely. However, these numbers
are what the CEO is watching. Whether we think they are
vital or not is a different issue. If you are going to make an
impact with that group, know the numbers before you
dazzle them with negotiating skill.
Impatience would tempt anyone to say something like,
“Earth to Rhonda: wake up ... this process is lots more
important than what you can do to dazzle.” Remember,
your associate’s perceived response to information is
related to what she thinks is important. Today’s
Generation Y and Generation X have little patience with
the big picture or politics or sensitivities. They think that
it’s too bad if you don’t get it. Patience is important on
both parts — outlooks may be totally opposite. No one
will ever mirror another’s values or priorities perfectly.
Don’t expect it.
Naturally, if inattentiveness becomes a real problem, you
will have to deal with it as a counselor. But be ready to
exercise patience by giving your associate an explanation,
some time and overview after overview.- Employee aptitude
Some people learn faster than others. As obvious as that
may sound, it is hard to remember it in a mentoring
situation. Your protégée may be way ahead of your most
“difficult” explanations ... finishing sentences for you ...
evidencing an advanced grasp of concepts it took you
much longer to “own.” More likely, however, she may
require very precise, step-by-step explanations from you
in order to effectively apply information in an actual work
situation. High performers may have great competencies,
but that doesn’t necessarily equate with overall
understanding and insights. Your two key jobs as a mentor
in this area are to:The Mentoring Role: Instruction by ExampleSome people learn
faster than others.