Jesse Robb began to work with America’s Car-Mart at 21 and soon sought a mentor to cultivate his potential path with the buy-here, pay-here dealership chain.

Now, Robb is the general manager of Car-Mart’s dealership in Bowling Green, Ky. Robb also was the company’s 2024 Mentor of the Year.

In his leadership position, here’s how Robb defines what it means to be a good mentor

“At its core, mentoring is caring about people,” Robb said through a Q&A on the Car-Mart website. “Everyone has a unique perspective, so mentoring is about getting your mentees to tap into their skills to get where they need to go.

“I draw from my experience to guide and support people so they can take the necessary steps toward success,” he continued.

Robb acknowledged his mentoring approach has evolved since joining Car-Mart, which now operates more than 150 locations in 12 states stretching from Iowa to Oklahoma to Georgia with his home base of Arkansas in the middle.

“My style adapts based on the individual needs of the mentee,” Robb said. “A role model style is the place to start — leading by example. Coaching has always been my go-to, allowing me to step back and facilitate discussions. I check in regularly with my mentees, working together to address their challenges.

“A mentoring relationship never truly ends,” he added. “Many of my former mentees continue to reach out to me, whether to seek advice on current issues or to catch up as colleagues. Ultimately, mentoring fosters lasting relationships that are truly wonderful.”

Robb pointed to passion, confidence and remaining humble as three of the most attributes of being a mentor.

“Plus, you can’t be a good mentor without being a good communicator. Good communication is key. People want feedback. They need to know if they’re doing good or bad. You must understand that your mentees are looking to you for guidance. Show them how and help make it easier for them,” Robb said.

“In the past, my style was focused on the end result. I worked on perfecting myself,” he continued. “Now, I’m more concerned about helping others. I’m less worried about making a mistake. I want to help others avoid mistakes. I’ve become more approachable and available, which are key characteristics of a good mentor. I’m also better now at giving feedback.”

While Robb might have this mentorship award on his mantle in the Blue Grass State, he’s looking at Car-Mart’s entire footprint and prospects as inspiration to keep being an impactful teacher to other company associates, managers and executives.

“Being a mentor is important because I want to see our company succeed. I want to see our people succeed. People will leave an organization when they feel undervalued; as mentors, we must step in and guide them toward the right actions,” Robb said.

“We advance individual careers through mentorship and contribute to Car-Mart’s overall success. Mentoring involves investing in one another’s potential and creating a positive, impactful culture,” he continued.

“I enjoy watching my mentees succeed and witness their personal growth. It’s essential to care about others and support their achievements. Keeping what you have to yourself doesn’t improve the world; sharing and helping others can make a difference,” Robb went on to say.