Benefits of Having a Mentor
We have all been there. Feeling ready to take the next step in our career, yet at the same time having self-doubt. Ever leave an inspiring conference session ready to take on the world and then get back to the office and ask yourself “What’s next”? or “What was I thinking”?
I can personally attest to these feelings. CSMFO conferences always have amazing inspirational speakers and there have been many times I have left the conference ready to progress in my career. However, I felt lost on how to get there. I knew I was ready, but I still needed the extra confidence and guidance to get me there.
One day I saw an advertisement and applied for a mentorship program. Next thing I knew I was matched with a mentor. The benefits from the program have far exceeded the inconvenience of taking the time out of my day to meet with my mentor. I have received exceptional guidance on techniques in dealing with public speaking anxiety, time management skills and on managing employees. Participating in this program allowed me to obtain an Interim Director position seamlessly and, within months, the full-time Director.
When I heard CSMFO was creating a mentorship program I knew I had to get involved. The guidance I received was so beneficial it was my time to pay it forward. Prior to being mentored I would not have had the courage to get involved. I would have said “I should do that” but make excuses for why I didn’t have time. The opportunity to be a part of the creation of a program that will help others has been an enriching experience. I can’t wait to do more.
It is completely normal to know you can achieve more but to be lost on how to get there. This is where a mentor can help you. Some of the best knowledge is obtained through experience. People who have walked in your shoes before can provide the advice you can’t find in a book. They at some-point have probably felt the same and can help you to move to that next step whether it’s to advance your career or figure out how to achieve a good work/life balance.
Are you ready for that promotion but haven’t been able to get there? Having trouble balancing your day between work and family responsibilities? Or just need advice on how to improve your skills? Then this program is for you! Sign up for the CSMFO mentorship program today!
Jennifer Ustation is the Finance Director for the City of Beaumont where she is responsible for all Finance Department services and activities including finance, purchasing, investments, debt management, budgeting, revenue collection and accounting. She has been with Beaumont for 7 years, starting as a Senior Accountant and promoting to the Finance Director position. Previously she worked at the City of Calimesa and the Moreno Valley Unified School District as an Accountant. She has more than 10 years of experience in municipal finance. Ms. Ustation is co-chair of the CSMFO Membership Committee. She has participated in the CSMFO Cohort program and GFOA Women in Public Finance program.
Ms. Ustation received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, Accounting Concentration from California State University San Bernardino. She is currently in the process of obtaining the Certified Public Finance Officer certification with the Government Finance Officers Association.
