People often struggle after starting a new job because their specific roles in the corporate structure may be vaguely explained. This is why many businesses establish a mentoring program; to help guide the new workers of the organizational culture code and help them meet the expectations of the job.
Recent research from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania states that the roles of mentorship can greatly reduce role ambiguity in the work place; giving a new worker a chance to learn from an experienced person. This is why the mentor plays a key role in establishing the safety culture. Having an effective mindful safety mentor program can increase employee productivity and longevity within your organization.
Being a mentor allows the person to recall their experiences and perhaps learn more from lessons they have been taught. This exercise can act as an accident prevention barrier. In addition, the act of sharing this information may give the mentor a boost in their motivation in learning about new safety rules and relearning material the new worker will need for their job. This creates a cycle of mindfulness as the mentor must be aware of their needs as well as the new worker’s needs in the workplace. At its core, mentorship is another form of leadership that focuses on the individual level. Like in leadership positions, mentors must choose their style of leadership i.e. coaching or using a more direct approach.
In developing a strong safety-mentoring program, here are four key focus areas that organizations should include:
Throughout each step an acute awareness, or mindfulness, must be taken in order to build an ideal mentoring model for your company. Once established, this approach can be applied to other aspects of your employee indoctrination program. If applied correctly it will have a positive impact throughout your organization.