Why Mentorship Is the Real ROI

In this episode of The Consultant’s Way podcast, Dean McMann and Anthony Paluska sit down with Mike Vazquez, Director of Professional Services at Avanti, to explore the power of mentorship in consulting. Mike shares his journey from startup environments to leading large professional services teams, emphasizing the critical role that mentorship has played in his own career development and the success of those he leads.

Mike discusses his approach to onboarding, coaching, and mentoring, breaking it down into distinct phases. He highlights the importance of not just technical training, but also developing the consulting skills that truly differentiate top performers. From guiding new hires through their first few months to helping more seasoned professionals navigate complex client interactions, Mike shares how he structures support to ensure long-term career growth.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of managing burnout, especially in remote work settings, and the importance of building strong, lasting relationships with clients and colleagues. Mike’s insights into balancing immediate project needs with long-term career planning provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to make a lasting impact in the consulting world.

Listen in for practical advice on creating mentorship frameworks, balancing technical and consulting skills, and the small habits that drive big career gains.