Carlos Davis. Photo credit: Chuck Holliday

January is National Mentoring Month, a campaign launched in 2002 that focuses attention on the need for mentors and promotes opportunities for those who want to get involved. This month, we’re talking to local leaders about their mentors and which mentoring organizations they’re supporting. 

Carlos Davis, founder/CEO, Stand & Deliver LLC

Chances are, if you’ve met Carlos Davis, then you know that part of his introduction is, “How can I help you?”

With others, that line may sound forced or robotic. With Davis, it’s a genuine ask that has successfully connected folks who need each other.

Need proof? It’s in the throngs of professionals who attend Davis’ Connecting the Dots luncheons and annual Charlotte Networking Week. Participants maneuver among human capital to walk away with job interviews, new clients, business funding or brunch buddies.

He’s a networking expert who has created opportunities by focusing less on his own wants and more on the needs of others. For the guy who’s gift of gab is inspiring the community — he’s also a motivational speaker and author — it was mentors who helped set him on a path to service.

A post shared by Carlos Davis (@mrresourcemogul) on

Which mentor has made the biggest impact on where you are today?

Eric Watson, former Food Lion executive and former CEO of the Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council.

What’s the best advice he gave you?

“If you go over and above for your team and community stakeholders, you will never run out of opportunities.”

What’s a local mentoring organization everyone should know about?

Everyone should know about the Mayor’s Mentoring Alliance. It helps you become a better mentor as well as connects you with the resources to connect with the right mentee.

Other National Mentoring Month spotlights