Mentorship Matters: A Conversation On Mentorship With Board Member Bret Gallaway
Posted on Aug. 13, 2025 / Subscribe 0
Mentorship is a vital part of career development, both for mentors and mentees. Learning how to communicate with those who are established in their careers helps new professionals navigate the field. For mentors, working with new professionals aids in furthering their communication skills and helping the next generation
I recently spoke with Bret Gallaway, founder and managing partner of Trestle Advisors and a board member at PRSA Detroit, to further understand his perspective on the importance of mentorship.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you've received from a mentor? How has it shaped your PR/communications career?
Have the courage to fail, and celebrate it.
“Scott Nordlund, my boss at Trinity Health, was all about trying new stuff,” Gallaway said. “And if it didn’t work, we’d figure out why and try again. He’s one of the biggest innovators in U.S. health care, and it seems his best, funniest stories are about failures. That ethos gave me courage.”
How can mentors help new professionals navigate the fast-paced, high-pressure industry?
Don’t be afraid to show vulnerability – it is how you learn.
“In the midst of a financial market meltdown, Ray O’Rourke, my boss at Morgan Stanley, came to my office and asked me how I was doing and talked about managing his own stress - often by finding humor in it,” Gallaway said. “That helped me stay calm. Many young professionals are reluctant to ask for help. It’s often not enough for mentors to say, ‘My door is always open.’ Instead, it’s helpful during high-pressure situations to reach out, acknowledge the stress and share experiences dealing with it.”
What are some effective strategies for mentoring someone from a different generation, background or communication style?
Lead with kindness and be thoughtful.
“It’s important to be respectful, authentic and engaging, and the relationship will flourish,” Gallaway said.
How can mentees take ownership of their development and make the most of a mentoring relationship?
Ask questions and keep in touch. Mentees get out of relationships what they put into them.
“Mentees reap what they sow,” Gallaway said. “It is a mistake to wait for mentors to reach out and share ideas. Instead, send brief email updates when you have news, ask for their insight on a puzzling project, send a Christmas card or invite them to lunch (and they may pay).”
How do mentors benefit from building relationships with mentees?
Mentors love to help, that is why they mentor.
“Mentors remember how tough it was to get started, we are grateful for those who helped us along the way, and we want to pay it forward,” Gallaway said.
Final Thoughts
Don’t overcomplicate asking someone to be a mentor.
“If you meet someone who might be a mentor, it might seem awkward or clunky to ask. Try this approach: ‘I’m excited about working in this business, and I’m interested in the work you do. I would like to keep in touch. Do you ever mentor young professionals?’ If they say no, that’s OK— they might have several mentees already. Ask if they could refer you to someone else. Or, attend a PRSA event and ask someone there to help!” Gallaway said.
Mentorship is a great opportunity for both mentors and mentees to learn more about the field, foster relationships and provide or receive guidance on various topics. If you are looking to build your network, consider attending an event with PRSA Detroit. A simple hello can open the door to a new connection.
Allison Gavagan is a rising junior at Oakland University studying Public Relations & Advertising and Psychology. She is the current intern at PRSA Detroit and OUWB.
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