[Fr0nt0ffice]

I just started a job in public accounting doing audit. I was assigned a mentor as I learn and start to do things. He seems like a nice enough guy and all, but unfortunately, I have the least in common with him out of all the people on the audit team. I tried to get some conversation going the other day at lunch, but as we’re getting into each other’s common interests, he happens to be the opposite of what I am lol.

Any tips on how I can get my mentor to getting more interested in me? It’s kinda awkward between us, I almost think that if he wasn’t assigned my mentor, it would have gone better tbh, because now theres a sense that we HAVE to get along, for the mentor thing’s sake. It feels forced when we talk. How can I show that I’m a very friendly person, good sense of humor, hard working, and open to criticism and new ideas? I just want to get along with everyone in the office as best as I can so I can impress enough to get a return offer from the firm (perform well in my position as well, obviously)

I almost want to slow down impressing and building relationships with other people. I am making friends with literally everybody and everybody except him haha. It’s not a good look, and I think he’ll like me even less if he sees me getting along with everyone except him when he is supposed to be my mentor, you know?

Any tips in general, with the whole corporate mentor thing?

[Stilgoin]

I suggest focusing on your job, being professional, and not getting sucked into office politics. Real friendships are built out of respect, and being the best at your job will get you respect from your mentor.

B | 62, 78
A | 73, 67, 79
R | 82
F | 59, 59, Waiting

Ethics | 93

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."
~Winston Churchill

“In a world full of critics, be an encourager."

[aaronmo]

Agree with the above. The answer to any work related question is usually shut up and do the work.

[ruggercpa2b]

I second what everyone else has said. Big 4 assigning a buddy is a standard and your personalities do not always match. You cannot force it. I met with mine the required times and that was it. If I saw her I said hello but did not try to make small talk. I actually ended up with a tax director as my mentor that I found myself. He has been instrumental in my success even after leaving the firm.

AUD - 73, 72 retake 7/2/2016
BEC - 8/20/2016
REG - TBD
FAR - TBD

I am so ready for this nightmare to be over. Been at this way too long.

[tygolfer]

Ya I would not worry too much about it. You aren't always going to be best friends with everyone you work with, just focus on being professional and doing your job well.

@Rugger what do you think of MDS so far? I haven't seen many people on here that have used it.

[Fr0nt0ffice]

It's getting a little better lol, it seems to have alot to do with the fact that I'm a bit of a slow learner, and he was getting a little frustrated with me. But I'm getting it, and I'm staying out of his hair. No big deal, I usually eventually get along with everyone I work with. Thx for the advice everyone

[Author]

Replies