The Streetwise Partners Career Mentorship Program
Last Tuesday, January 10th, marked the beginning of the Winter 2023 Streetwise Partners mentorship program. I have had the privilege of holding senior leadership positions across many organizations.
However, none has taken feedback and improved their processes, people, and program more successfully than Streetwise. Streetwise Partners is dedicated to empowering growing professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the corporate work environment.
This will be my 11th year participating in the program. Having served as a 1-day volunteer, a mentor, and a group leader many times, I have gained a unique perspective on how this organization operates.
And honestly… it’s mind-blowing.
Taking Feedback And Making Real Improvements
Their ability to invite constructive feedback, actively listen to praise and problems from mentors and mentees, and iteratively implement substantive improvements, all the while staying true to the organization’s core mission, is an example others should follow.
Think about the number of surveys you have filled out for academic programs, work events, or product feedback. Reviewers are cheerily encouraged to be honest and promised that, unlike every other time, this time, they will be heard, and changes will be made. Let me ask you… how many times have you felt heard?
So it blows my mind that after 11 years, Streetwise continues to ask, listen, and improve everything. These improvements are reflected in every aspect of how this program is executed, from marketing to recruitment to delivery and alumni community development. As I sat through the orientation presentation on Tuesday, I was amazed at how polished the presentation was and how the photos, layout, and delivery of the material was better communicated than before.
The presentation even included a fun interactive polling tool that encouraged audience participation. I thought this was an incredibly creative way to stimulate the growing army of Zoom Zombies. I have sat this orientation presentation 15x, yet with these improvements and a fresh bunch of faces, it was like a brand new experience for me.
Transitioning From In-Person To Online Was Seamless
StreetWise’s transition to a virtual format was seamless, thanks to the support of a strong staff and community of volunteers. Incorporating new technology platforms, building new operating systems, and re-organizing staff and supporters were handled with empathy and compassion.
StreetWise Partners’ success in adapting an entirely in-person program to a virtual environment almost overnight is a reflection of a culture that is genuinely collaborative, solution-oriented, and community-focused.
Focusing On Fundamental Professional Skills
One of the main reasons I joined StreetWise was that I realized that many otherwise talented, experienced, and hard-working folks lacked a fundamental understanding of essential professional skills. I went to New York University, where I was so steeped in career speak that upon graduation, the daunting task of writing a resume and sitting for an interview were already familiar experiences.
Moreover, I had access to a wealth of professional resources, counselors, and mentorship events which helped cultivate my curiosity and interest in various career paths. I soon realized how fortunate I was and that, for most people, such opportunities are rare or nonexistent.
The Streetwise educational curriculum focuses on more than just career fundamentals like how to write a resume, craft a cover letter, and launch a LinkedIn profile. Through mock interviews, speed networking, and practice pitches, mentees get to engage with experienced professionals in an environment many colleges fail to provide their students. The program also allows budding professionals to practice dressing appropriately, introducing themselves, shaking hands, and making eye contact when speaking with someone.
If you want to be exceptional and stand out from the crowd, mastering these skills is the minimum to success in any profession. Individuals can learn to continuously improve their abilities, adapt to new technologies, and effectively communicate with others. The program also demands that graduates improve their time management, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. All of these skills help professionals take on new challenges and make meaningful contributions to their organizations.
About Akshay Ramanathan
With 10+ years of experience as a college counselor, career coach, resume writer, and corporate professional, I know firsthand the confusion and challenges both ambitious students and purpose-driven professionals face when building a career that is engaging and meaningful.
I have successfully overcome these problems myself and helped many others do the same.
Click here to book a call and learn how I’d like to help you take your career or college experience to the next level!
