Mentor Tips That Shaped These Women Leaders

The Power of Mentorship in Shaping Leadership

Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping the careers and leadership styles of professionals. For many, the guidance received from a mentor can be transformative, offering insights that redefine how they approach their work and lead others. These lessons often come in the form of simple yet powerful advice that stays with individuals throughout their professional journey.

One of the most impactful pieces of advice came from Susie Steinhagen, President of PCG. Her grandmother once told her, “Honey, you only get one reputation. Treat it like gold.” This wisdom has stayed with her and influenced her leadership approach. Another piece of advice from a mentor helped her reframe how she deals with change: “People can only be where they are.” This perspective made it easier for her to engage and lead change effectively.

Lauren Goldstein, Founder and CEO of Golden Key Partnership, recalls a mentor’s advice that struck a deep chord: “You can be right, or you can be in a relationship.” This lesson taught her the importance of maintaining relationships over being correct. It shifted her approach to conflict and leadership, emphasizing the need to coach and mentor rather than simply correcting others.

Ann Houser, CEO of The Bailey Group, credits a mentor’s push for a cross-functional position outside of HR with leading to a significant career opportunity. This experience, though outside her comfort zone, proved invaluable and continues to influence her leadership as a CEO today.

Jolsna Thomas, Founder and President of Illuminating Growth, learned the power of saying yes from a mentor. “Be open to new opportunities,” she says. This advice has opened doors for her, allowing her to explore new paths and grow professionally.

Hillary Spreizer, CEO and Owner of The Latitude Group, was inspired by a mentor’s analogy: “Relationships are like bank accounts. Invest first and often so that you always have enough to make a withdrawal.” Initially, this concept felt transactional, but over time, she realized its value in building long-term connections and adding value before expecting anything in return.

Traci Schweikert, Founder and Chief Advisor of Talent Engagement Strategies, was advised by a mentor to reconsider wanting to be invited to a party that excluded her. “Reconsider wanting to be invited to a party that excluded you — unless you want to be the cleanup crew.” This insight helped her understand her worth and prioritize environments where she is valued and respected.

Juliet Fox, CEO of AvidEdge, was encouraged by a mentor to embrace every part of the work, not just the enjoyable aspects. “Learn to love every part of the work — not just your favorite part.” This advice transformed her approach to business, helping her appreciate all aspects of building a company.

These experiences highlight several key lessons:

• Your reputation is your most valuable asset. Guard it carefully and lead with integrity.
• Leadership is relational, not just directional. Choose connection over control.
• Growth lives outside your comfort zone. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you.
• Relationships are an investment. Build trust before you need to draw on it.
• Not all invitations are equal. Choose roles where you’re respected, not just needed.
• Fall in love with the whole job. The hard parts are often where leadership is forged.

Mentorship doesn’t always come in the form of official programs or long-standing relationships. Sometimes, a single sentence uttered at an opportune moment can redefine a leader’s entire career trajectory. As these leaders demonstrate, the right words—backed by experience and delivered with intention—can echo through decades of leadership. Whether it’s permission to let go of perfection, an invitation to step into discomfort, or a reminder to protect your reputation, the best advice doesn’t just inform decisions. It shapes legacies.