In this new column, CPA Community members are invited to share their expertise on key topics such as emerging accounting trends, accounting, fintech, and beyond.
Serving as a mentor in the HKICPA Mentorship Programme since 2019 has become a defining element of my professional journey. The programme offers a purpose-driven platform that connects seasoned CPAs with emerging professionals, fostering a dynamic environment for knowledge sharing, personal growth, and the development of future leaders. Fueled by my passion for youth development and commitment to nurturing future talent, I have dedicated more than a decade to mentoring students through programmes organized by 10 universities in Hong Kong. In these roles, I have guided aspiring professionals to build essential skills and prepare for workplace success. These experiences have continually reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of mentorship and the value of strong professional bonds within our industry.
Genuine connections lie at the core of impactful mentorship. Before offering formal guidance, mentors must first establish trust and rapport with their mentees. Fostering an environment grounded in empathy and understanding enables mentors to provide not only inspiration and advice but also meaningful emotional support. Empathy helps mentees feel valued and understood, while active listening encourages them to become more open to feedback and guidance. Through this process, trust and mutual respect naturally develop, often turning mentorship into lasting friendship.
Mentorship is inherently a two-way journey – its success depends on reciprocal commitment from both mentor and mentee. Successful mentoring relationships flourish when both parties engage fully and embrace learning from each other. As a mentor, I help my mentees identify their strengths and areas for growth, empowering them to unlock their potential and navigate challenges with resilience and confidence. In doing so, I also experience personal growth and gain new perspectives.
To further enhance engagement, I often encourage my mentees to participate in reverse mentoring, which is where the mentee shares their knowledge, often in areas like technology, workplace culture, or emerging trends, with their mentor, creating a two-way learning experience. This approach fosters exchange of fresh ideas and mutual learning, making the experience dynamic and rewarding. By inviting mentees to share their perspectives, I benefit from their insights and remain attuned to emerging trends and new ways of thinking. Through this process, mentorship becomes a continuous source of inspiration for both mentor and mentee.
A key dimension of mentorship is facilitating professional networking opportunities. I am committed to broadening my mentees’ horizons by introducing them to my professional connections where appropriate – whether by bringing them to conferences, workshops, and networking events. These opportunities allow them to expand their networks, gain exposure to industry leaders, and explore new career possibilities. I also actively seek opportunities aligned with their interests and ambitions, enabling them to take early, purposeful steps toward their goals.
Successful networking however requires proactivity. I encourage my mentees to take the initiative in building their own networks, as this helps develop confidence and leaves a lasting impression. In today’s digital age, I advise them to leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals, stay updated on industry trends, and showcase their expertise. This not only enhances their personal brand but also increases their visibility to recruiters and collaborators.
Mentorship and networking when practiced with empathy and sincerity are powerful tools for personal and professional growth. By fostering supportive relationships, encouraging reciprocal learning, and facilitating meaningful connections, we can empower the next generation of CPAs to thrive. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this journey and look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact of strong professional relationships within our community.
Vincent Tam is the Chief Advisor at Relearn Education Limited, with over 28 years of diverse experience spanning corporate banking, corporate development, talent management, internal audit, and risk management. As a dedicated CPA and long-time mentor in the HKICPA Mentorship Programme and 10 local universities, he is passionate about nurturing future leaders, advancing professional excellence, and fostering a collaborative, forward-looking community within the accounting and business sectors.
