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Singer, songwriter Charlie Puth launched his stardom at age 24 with his 2015 hit “See You Again,” which garnered almost 6 billion views on YouTube.
For the next few years, Charlie collaborated on many songs and produced two albums, including the smash single “One Call Away” with Selena Gomez. But in early 2020, Charlie was struggling with his music. Eventually, he decided to scrap his work on a much-anticipated third album, announcing to his fans, “none of the music feels real.” Around this time, Charlie was dining at a restaurant in West Hollywood when the restaurant’s maître d’ approached him. He said, “Elton John would like to meet you.” (Through a friend, Elton had heard an early version of Charlie’s third album.) Elton told Charlie, “That music you just put out is not very good.” Charlie was a bit taken aback – as he recalls, “it stung for two minutes.” But not because he disagreed with Elton but because Elton said precisely what Charlie was thinking right before that meal – he confirmed Charlie’s decision. And that’s how Elton spot-mentored Charlie. Spot Mentoring is sharing in a moment a hard-won perspective with the hope of making a difference. Three requirements for Spot Mentoring to work: Unlike mentoring relationships, Spot Mentoring doesn’t demand a bedrock of trust, goals, and structure. Instead, it starts with an observation, often by a stranger, someone who is an authority, an expert, or a leader in a particular area. Fueled by generosity, they want to contribute their insights to make an impact. And while typically unsolicited, Spot Mentoring is not about judging, criticizing, or offering advice. Instead, it’s about intentionally validating someone’s experience or revealing an opportunity. Charlie didn’t seek guidance from Elton – they hadn’t even met yet! And Elton didn’t attack, reprimand, or berate – he didn’t even offer Charlie any advice. Rather, the iconic crooner took the initiative to leverage his wisdom gained from decades in the music industry and nudge a floundering musician. When you see an opportunity to do some good with your experiences or expertise, dare to engage. Mentoring makes us better human beings through relationships. Spot Mentoring works on our humanity in moments. © 2022. Ann Tardy and MentorLead. www.mentorlead.com. All Rights Reserved. |