Few leaders reach the top without guidance. Mentors play a critical role in shaping careers, opening doors, and instilling confidence. Yet many aspiring leaders wonder: How do I find the right mentor? What should I expect? How do I maximize the relationship? Drawing on insights from hospitality leaders interviewed on It’s Personal Stories, here are six key lessons.
Be Proactive in Seeking Mentors
Mentorship rarely happens by accident. Aspiring leaders must take the first step. Rosanna Maietta, CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, shared how her own initiative paid off: “When I reached out to leaders I admired, I was surprised how generous they were with their time. It taught me that doors open when you take the initiative to knock.” The lesson: don’t wait for mentors to find you—approach people whose leadership you admire.
Look for Diversity of Perspective
A single mentor cannot provide all the answers. Jonathan Zink, chief operating officer of The BHN Group, explained: “I’ve had mentors in different places—some in the U.S., some in Asia. Each gave me a unique lens on leadership and culture.” Aspiring leaders should build a “board of mentors” with varied experiences, ensuring broad perspectives on both business and life.
Value Honest, Sometimes Tough Feedback
The best mentors don’t just encourage—they challenge. Kelly Kuhn, longtime global executive, remembered a mentor pushing her into a role she didn’t think she was ready for: “I was terrified, but I trusted his belief in me. Saying yes changed the course of my career.” Aspiring leaders should welcome mentors who nudge them beyond comfort zones.
Seek Mentors Who Model Values, Not Just Skills
Technical skills are important, but values shape long-term success. Jonathan Tisch, executive chairman of Loews Hotels, credited his mentors for instilling character: “From my father, I learned how to connect with people. From my uncle, the financial discipline to run a business.” Aspiring leaders should look for mentors whose values align with the kind of leader they aspire to be.
Understand the Difference Between Mentorship and Sponsorship
A mentor gives advice; a sponsor creates opportunity. Katherine Lugar, EVP of corporate affairs at Hilton, stressed: “Mentors are invaluable, but sponsors advocate for you when you’re not in the room. Both are essential.” Aspiring leaders should actively cultivate relationships with people who can guide them and those who can open doors.
Pay It Forward Early
Mentorship is not a one-way street. Kate Walsh, dean of the Cornell Nolan School, explained: “When leaders take an interest in someone’s career, it communicates that you care—and that inspires loyalty and growth.” Even as emerging leaders, you can mentor peers, interns, or students. Teaching others reinforces your own learning and establishes you as a leader.
Closing Thought
Mentorship is not about collecting famous names in your corner. It is about building relationships with people who challenge, encourage, and open doors. For aspiring leaders, the advice is clear: seek mentors intentionally, learn from a variety of voices, welcome honest feedback, prioritize shared values, find sponsors as well as advisors, and start mentoring others as soon as you can. In hospitality—an industry built on human connection—mentorship may be the most powerful investment you make in your future.
It’s Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast showcases the inspiring journeys of leaders across the hospitality industry, empowering listeners with actionable insights for personal and professional success. With a library of over 250 episodes, the podcast features candid advice and stories from C-Suite executives, educators, life coaches, best-selling authors, and other influential voices in the field. Launched in 2022 by industry veterans David Kong, Dorothy Dowling, Rachel Humphrey, Lan Elliott, and Huilian Duan, It’s Personal Stories has earned recognition as a top hospitality podcast by the International Hospitality Institute every year since launch. Discover these powerful stories and more at www.itspersonalstories.com.