Considering Becoming a Mentor? Here’s Why Mentorship Is Rewarding, From a Chief of Staff

“The best leaders encourage you to learn, lead and grow.” — Beth Thompson

Beth Thompson, Chief of Staff to the CMO and Senior Director of Global Events at Freshworks, knows the importance of good leadership. She’s served under great leaders — and been one herself. “I have been fortunate to work with several amazing leaders in my career,” she explains. “They have influenced me to push myself, take on new career challenges and take risks.”

As for herself, Thompson is a seasoned leader. In addition to her time at Freshworks, she’s worked as a Head of HCM products and held multiple marketing leadership roles at different SaaS companies.

Here, Thompson shares how she uses her experience to mentor others — and how Freshworks (a leading provider of modern SaaS solutions) supports employees like her!

How has having or being a mentor or sponsor enriched your own work experience?

Being a mentor allows me to use my 20+ years of experience to give advice, help others look at situations differently and brainstorm solutions to challenges. I love being a mentor but I also gain just as much from the relationship! Talking to others about different situations also gives me perspective into solving problems and helps to build relationships.

Does Freshworks have a formal program in place for mentorship or sponsorship?

We have both! Our women’s employee resource group, Freshworks Women360, curates an annual mentorship program where women from across the organization are paired in an effort to create networking and professional development opportunities. Additionally, the organization hosts events and community building opportunities throughout the year to support and empower women across the organization.

Mentoring other women is important to me- I also serve as a mentor in an inaugural Empower Cross Organization Mentorship program hosted by HerCSuite. The program matches mentors and Mentees across different companies like Coupa, Commvault, Freshworks and Greif. 

Do you feel like your mentorship experience has been reflective of the overall culture at Freshworks?

Yes! As a company, happiness is at our core. As we strive to delight customers, just as importantly is delighting our employees. Through various venues and career development opportunities, we encourage development, collaboration, relationship building and growth.

What is your favorite perk about working at Freshworks?

I appreciate the flexibility. It’s great to have the option to work remotely from home where I can hop on a spin ride over lunch or go into an office and collaborate with colleagues in person. We also have unlimited PTO. It’s empowering to be trusted and not constantly be tracking hours or sitting behind a desk but to work during times when I’m my most creative and productive self. 

Ultimately, what has led you to stay at Freshworks?

Freshworks has an incredible culture that creates an amazing environment where people are empowered and inspired to do their best work. It’s so energizing to work with so many smart and talented people and it keeps me at my best. 

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