What Are The Characteristics Of Your Best Mentor?

I RELISHED FEEDBACK THROUGHOUT MY CAREER. I remember the first time a department head complimented me on a report I had written and asked some terrific questions about it. He was not known to give idle praise, and I was walking on air when he left. Based on this experience, I emulated this behavior when warranted.

I also was grateful for the empathy shown to me by another mentor. When struggling with a key career decision, he spent two hours with me reviewing all the options and providing advice. But rather than provide the answer, he let me decide on my own. I have endeavored to pay that forward.

I found it important to learn from the strengths of mentors. During difficult scientific debates, one leader was terrific at sifting through all the chafe and focusing on the key issue. It is a skill I have tried to develop, as well.

JOHN LAMATTINA is the former president of Pfizer R&D and is now a senior partner at PureTech Health.