Navigating success: The power of mentorship in your career journey  (original) (raw)

Throughout my career journey, marked with ambition, perseverance, and growth, one pillar has consistently stood out above the rest: mentorship. From the moment I joined the Commercial Account Manager trainee program at TD right after finishing school, unsure of my path forward in an industry with few women in senior leadership roles, to now, as the Head of Metro West Region, where I lead 150 branches, mentors have been my guiding stars, helping me navigate challenges and develop personally and professionally.

As a Region Head, I’m constantly connecting with my branch teams, coaching them and working closely with internal partners to enhance the customer experience and solve irritants. Apart from that, I also take time out for various volunteer roles, including Campaign Cabinet for United Way Halton and Hamilton (UWHH), and board member of the YMCA of Oakville, TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (FEF) and Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation. Balancing these commitments may seem daunting, but I'm passionate about making a difference in our communities, so it doesn't feel like work.

I think it's important to emphasize the pivotal role mentorship plays in fostering career growth and success. I was guided by three impeccable mentors who helped shape my path.

Finding your guiding light

Based on my experiences, I would say mentorship can help bring a unique perspective to development and it can transform you both personally and professionally.

Here's an example. Early in my career, a mentor encouraged me to pursue a lateral move. TD was working on expanding its presence in India, including setting up contact centres. Although it wasn't a role I had previously considered, I'm glad I took the advice. This role opened doors for me that I hadn't imagined, leading to a successful launch of our contact centres and ultimately securing my next leadership role as Vice President. Whenever I faced crossroads or tough decisions, my mentors offered a fresh outlook that helped me navigate the situation with clarity. Mentors share diverse perspectives and experiences, which have been invaluable to my growth.

Identifying mentors who align with your personal goals and values is crucial. I always suggest looking for someone who will advocate for you when you’re in and out of the room. Having mentors also means managing their expectations. Structure your meetings and all interactions to make the most of everyone's time. Provide a clear agenda beforehand to encourage active listening and openness to all kinds of feedback. This is the key to unlocking your full potential.

Remember, you own your career path, but you don't walk it alone. Now, as a mentor myself, I listen with empathy and fairness, and I believe it's important that as we RISE, we LIFT.

TD's culture of inclusion

At TD, colleague development is paramount. Our CEO often says that our competitors can try to recreate our strategy, but they can't replicate our culture and our people. This dedication extends to empowering women. As the Pillar Lead of Women at TD on our Canadian Personal Banking Inclusion and Diversity Leadership Council (IDLC), I'm proud of our network of 12,000 women across North America, who support each other through mentorship and encouragement. Our work has resulted in delivering workshops and world-class leadership training programs like 50 Ways to Fight Bias, designed to understand and combat the various biases women face at work. I'm also pleased that we have passionate leaders spearheading Women at TD initiatives in our branches and communities.

We often collaborate with organizations like ACCES Employment, the YMCA and United Way, and you'll see us on school campuses actively seeking future talent. TD offers a variety of mentorship programs tailored for diverse communities including Indigenous Peoples and visible minorities, to encourage their professional growth and development within the Bank.

Paying it forward

My own journey into mentorship began organically. Witnessing firsthand the impact it had on me, I felt compelled to pay it forward. I encourage mentees to become mentors themselves, contributing to the next generation of leaders.

Mentorship is a two-way street. Even now, I have a mentor who provides invaluable guidance. It's a privilege to mentor others and witness their growth. Seeing numerous branch managers who I have mentored to become vice presidents fills me with immense satisfaction.

To my current and future colleagues, embrace change and take risks in pursuing what you love to do. TD offers diverse opportunities for exploration and growth, so don't worry about boxing yourself in. Reach out, connect and explore our mentorship programs – your journey to success starts with you.

Let's continue to learn, grow, and mentor each other towards a brighter future.