Mentoring up, or what’s also known as "reverse mentorship", is gaining popularity in the insurance industry.
With significant gaps in age and professional experience, older workers with years of industry experience are taking on the mentor role but are also learning from younger employees who have a diverse skill set. This creates an amazing opportunity for both parties to learn from each other.
The success of reverse mentorship depends on two key factors: a psychologically safe environment and vulnerability. These two elements are crucial for a well-functioning and high-performing team.
When paired with coaching, reverse mentorship can broaden the knowledge of individuals and teams within an organization. This creates a culture of constant learning and growth that can help organizations move into the future.
Reverse mentorship also makes it easier to identify knowledge gaps and address them through coaching. By implementing reverse mentorship and coaching programs, organizations can transfer knowledge and create opportunities for growth. Ultimately, the entire organization benefits from having the right people in the right positions.
It’s important for insurance organizations to formalize these programs into their processes and prioritize mentorship as essential to their success.