Since our founding by Megan McCann in 2011, mentorship has been a cornerstone of McCann Partners’ story. It’s woven into our business, as mentoring relationships have resulted in placing talent and opening new doors, and it defines our mission to deliver IT recruitment with intention and integrity. It’s part of our DNA, not only because we’re closely aligned with ARA Mentors, of which our CEO and Chief Growth Officer are proud co-founders, or because it’s a topic we like to talk about a lot (see “Deconstructing Mentorship with 1871 & Friends” and “Why Role Models Will Change the World” for evidence!). It’s also because mentorship has played an exceedingly important part in our team’s careers and personal lives.
We’re thankful for all that our mentorships have offered us through the years, and as we recognize #ThankYourMentor Day on January 27, we wanted to share our appreciation. Appreciation for the moments we’ve laughed and cried with our mentors, started new roles and reflected on missteps, celebrated incredible breakthroughs, and vented through crushing frustrations.
Below, our CEO and Founder Megan McCann, Chief Growth Officer Jane Hamner, Senior IT Recruitment Delivery Consultants Angelica Carroll and Brandy Todd, and IT Recruitment Delivery Consultant Gabrielle Bell, reflect on the immense gratitude for mentorships in their lives—both as mentors and mentees.
In addition, they share shout outs to some special mentors and offer helpful advice on how to make the most of mentorships, even if you’re intimidated or reluctant to ask for help.
From the McCann Partners Team: What Mentorship Means to Us
Megan McCann: Since I started in the workforce, mentoring has been part of my life and professional story… What I most appreciate about mentorship is the fact that it can be found everywhere—from colleagues and business partners, to clients, friends/family, to those who always give freely of their time, support, and advice. Read more of Megan’s mentorship story.
Jane Hamner: Mentoring has been part of my professional career for over 30 years. I have had the great fortune to work under some very talented and strong people early in my career that provided me with the guidance, advice, and sometimes difficult conversations that helped carve my path forward. I will be forever grateful to them all! Get Jane’s best piece of advice on making the most of mentorship.
Angelica Carroll: Mentorship is one of the best ways to keep you focused and accountable in a positive and uplifting way. It’s important to seek out mentors because there’s always room for every one of us to improve. Having great mentors has helped me understand my strengths as a professional, but also shed light on things that I need to continue to work on for my professional growth. Learn more from Angelica on how to reach out to a mentor even if you’re intimidated.
Brandy Todd: Being both a mentee and mentor has been a part of my entire 20+ years professional life. No matter what your level, we are all constantly evolving and can learn and grow from those around us. This is especially true in technology. I really appreciate groups like ARA Mentors that are inspiring women to be mentors to help younger professionals push themselves and give them the tools and resources to help grow their careers. Organizations like this are invaluable and can really make a difference in someone’s lives.
Gabrielle Bell: Mentorship can find you in unexpected ways. A candidate I placed a few years ago regularly stays connected with me regarding their personal and professional development, and this helped me realize the impact I can have on others. I like to help where I can! Recently, I signed up to be a ChiTech Academy Mentor through McCann Partners and I look forward to hopefully having a positive impact on more individuals.
If you’re interested in learning more about mentorship and how you can get more involved, visit resources such as ARA Mentors and the Chicago Innovation Women’s Mentoring Co-Op. In addition, check out additional mentorship content on the McCann Partners blog.
