Workday Playdate

Snack 21: Finding a Mentor That Gets You (Without the Awkward Ask)


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In today’s snack, Erin’s busting the myth that a mentor is just going to magically appear and fix everything.

The Problem:

We’ve all heard it—“You need a mentor!” But asking for one feels like proposing after two dates. We freeze, wait, and convince ourselves no one has time for us.

The Improv Hack to Try: The Spotlight Flip

Instead of waiting for someone to spotlight you, flip the light on THEM. Next time you meet someone you admire, ask:

"I love how you [specific thing]. If you were giving a TED Talk to your younger self, what would it be about?"

No pressure, just pure curiosity.

Why it works: In improv, making others look good builds trust. Spotlighting someone makes them more likely to engage with you, so mentorship might follow naturally.

Bonus Tip: Mentorship isn’t always formal. Keep a list of “unofficial mentors” to learn from passively.

Wednesday Tease: Catch Episode 298 this Wednesday: Stop Waiting for a Mentor to Magically Appear—Start Here Instead. Don’t miss it!

Feeling overwhelmed in high-stakes moments? Download our latest free resource—The Clarity Under Pressure Toolkit—a concise guide to navigating uncertainty with poise. In just five minutes, you'll learn how to center yourself, assess the situation, and respond with confidence. This actionable toolkit equips you with the tools to stay grounded and make clear decisions when it matters most.

 

 

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting)

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Workday PlaydateBy Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer, Failfluencer, Keynote Speaker

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