Malignant Mentors: Lori the Loyalist

Mentorship can be both a blessing and a challenge in the workplace. Take the case of Lori the Loyalist—a mentor I trusted, but who ultimately put her loyalty to the organization above her loyalty to me. When I confided in her about potentially missing a last-minute meeting, she reported it to our boss, leading to uncomfortable questions and accusations about my commitment to my role.

This experience taught me that while mentors can offer invaluable support, we have to keep in mind that their actions are often shaped by their own career interests and their obligations to the company. That isn’t necessarily malicious, but it’s important to remember that Lori the Loyalist’s primary loyalty is not to you.

I’ve also worked with mentors who supported me well beyond their formal duties—proving that not all mentors operate this way. But Lori’s actions served as a reminder: not everyone who offers guidance has your best interests at heart.

What do you think?

#Mentoring #WorkplaceDynamics #CareerAdvice #Leadership #Badmentor