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A Better Way to Ask for Advice
Article

A Better Way to Ask for Advice



Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Eye Opening
  • For Beginners

Recommendation

Albert Einstein was a genius, but he was an appalling teacher. When learning a new discipline, you might be tempted to seek out the advice of the most respected and accomplished experts in your field. But according to organizational psychologist Adam Grant, who draws from the latest behavioral science research into learning and career development, you shouldn’t ask an expert to teach you the fundamentals. Learn why studying under maestros might in fact hinder your learning, and discover how to optimize mentor-mentee relationships while exploring the career pathway that’s best for you.

Take-Aways

  • Virtuosos tend to be worse at teaching beginners than less-specialized instructors. 
  • Seek advice from multiple mentors, as opposed to a single guide, on your career journey.
  • Your mentors can reveal potential pathways, but you must chart your own course.

About the Author

Adam Grant is an organizational psychologist who focuses on how people lead more creative and generous lives and find meaning and motivation. He is the author of Originals, Give and Take and Think Again, as well as the host of the podcasts Re:Thinking and WorkLife.