Marcus Dodson of Godfath3r Media
As the first Black woman to secure an exit from a venture-backed technology company in Austin, Texas, veteran entrepreneur Janice Omadeke has a wealth of knowledge about mentorship and the mentor-mentee relationship.
Mr. Omadeke is the founder and CEO of The Mentor Method, a data-driven “enterprise software designed to drive culture change through the power of mentorship.” Additionally, Omadeke is the author of a new book, “Mentorship Unlocked: The Science and Art of Set Yourself Up for Success,” released this week.
‘Mentorship Unlocked’ is the definitive guide to using mentorship to build a fulfilling career and vibrant professional network,” Omadeke told ESSENCE. “This book teaches the principles top CEOs employ to make strategic decisions, self-awareness, identify the right leaders, engage with them, and effectively manage these relationships. ”
“This book is adaptable and designed to support career growth over time, helping new graduates, those expanding their networks amid job market uncertainty, and finding the next step.” It’s perfect for mid-level managers looking to revamp their mentoring circles, seasoned professionals looking to revamp their mentoring circles, or to match their mentor’s leadership style to drive efficiency,” Omadeke continued.
The data is clear. “Black youth who were mentored were more likely to report positive outcomes in mental health, education, and employment than those who were not mentored.” It is equally important when doing so.
According to a study conducted by the Center for Talent Innovation (CTI), a nonprofit think tank, “At work, black professionals have more access to senior leaders and receive support from managers than white professionals. It’s unlikely.”
For black women, this problem is even more pronounced. According to LeanIn research, “Black women are far less likely to interact with senior leaders at work than their non-Black colleagues…This also means that Black women are less likely to be involved in important conversations about company priorities and strategy. It also means they’re less likely to participate and have fewer conversations.” It gives you an opportunity to get noticed by people in leadership. ” Mentorship is a proven tactic to combat some of these disparities by helping employees develop bonds with company leaders and fostering opportunities for growth.
“Inspired by my transition from corporate graphic designer to successful mentorship software entrepreneur and now author, this book shares the mentorship strategies I have applied throughout my career. ” Omadeke said. “This book is based on the stories of ambitious professionals and entrepreneurs who can achieve great things with the right support. Mentorship seems easy, especially for underrepresented groups. “It’s something that’s elusive. My goal is to give you the tools you need in a supportive environment without feeling pressured to be perfect,” she said.
Ultimately, the book’s framework, packed with scripts, templates, and real-world examples, will help readers prepare to make informed decisions about their career, mentorship, and life path. Our goal is to make people feel like they are being treated as such,” Omadeke said. “My hope is that readers will see themselves in these pages and realize that they are not alone. For those who have never had a mentor, through this book You will find a leader.”
