A Mentor could be critical for your development. However, not all the people is lucky enough to find a mentor as casually as I did (read my previous article). So, maybe now the question is: how can I find a mentor?
Good news!
Finding one is easier than it may sound. Just follow these 7 steps and you’ll be able to find AND work with a mentor. But (there is always a but), do you know what’s a mentor to start? If you do, then go directly to the 7 steps below. If you don’t, don’t worry I will help you to clarify what’s a mentor.
Mentor
Yeah, a mentor is a guide, but what sort of guide? It may be confusing or seem similar to terms such as coaching or sponsoring. In another post I will let you know the main differences between these concepts. Now, let’s focus on what a mentor is.
The Management-mentors site mentions that these are specific characteristics of mentoring:
- development (of the mentee) driven. Its purpose is to develop the individual not only for the current job, but also for the future;
- relationship oriented;
- long term;
- based on the mentor’s personal experience.
The mentor is a source of wisdom, teaching and support. Susan Johnston says that a mentor must be an expert (to offer you insights and perspectives), generous with its time and resources, and honest with you.
7 steps to find and work with a Mentor
Now, you just need to follow these easy steps to find a Mentor.
One last piece of advice…
A good mentor won’t ask anything in return. However, as I said before your must be grateful. And what a better way to say thanks than making yourself valuable in return.
As Dorie Clark – author of Reinventing You and Stand Out – mentions in this article there is a question that you should ask yourself regarding your mentor:
How can I make the relationship reciprocal?
So, as Clark says
think about what skills or qualities you bring to the table and may be able to offer.
Now you know what’s a mentor and how to find one. So, go and find yours. As we talked before, it will make a great difference in your life.
Try it and let me know your ideas and experiences. Share this post to someone who may find it helpful.
Diego is an experienced learning advisor, a certified trainer and a design thinking consultant.
He is available for advisory where the focus is on driving trascendental learning and lasting change. Moreover, he is always eager to chat.
Connect deeper in Twitter (@diegolainez) and in LinkedIn (Diego Lainez Jaimeson).
