Finding a mentor can significantly impact your career or business, especially when starting.
I was always looking for ways to find the right mentor to help me succeed in my life, career, and business.
Tapping into your existing network is one of the most effective ways to find a mentor. Here’s how you can do it in 5 simple steps:
Your closest contacts, like former bosses, colleagues, professors, or even family friends, can be valuable resources when searching for a mentor.
Reach out to them and express your career goals, asking if they know anyone who might be willing to mentor you.
For instance, a marketing professional once contacted her former boss, who wasn’t available to mentor her directly but introduced her to a colleague with over 20 years of industry experience.
That colleague became her mentor, offering invaluable guidance. You’ll also want to speak with people a few steps ahead.
Sometimes, it’s easier to learn and get guidance from someone who isn’t on a level so far away that it’s hard to apply or understand at your current stage.
Face-to-face interactions at industry events can lead to meaningful connections. (We host these in our Mentee Community!)
Attend conferences, workshops, or local meetups to meet potential mentors.
I like using platforms like Luma and Eventbrite here in Vancouver.
Prepare to introduce yourself confidently and explain what you want in a mentor.
An example of this is an aspiring entrepreneur who attended a local startup event and connected with a seasoned entrepreneur who later became his mentor.
(We offer a lot of connections like this inside our community for entrepreneurs.)
The digital world offers vast opportunities to find a mentor.
Use LinkedIn to search for professionals in your field and join industry-specific groups. Participate actively in discussions and personalize your message when reaching out.
One tech startup founder joined LinkedIn groups related to her industry, actively participated, and eventually connected with a tech executive who offered to mentor her.
Feel free to follow me on LinkedIn here.
Sometimes, the best connections come from introductions.
If you know someone respected in your industry, ask if they can refer you to a mentor.
A recent business graduate once did this by asking a professor for a referral, leading to an introduction to a successful entrepreneur who became his mentor.
Building relationships before asking for mentorship can make your request more natural.
Look for ways to offer value, like sharing relevant articles or offering help on a project (this is really really important!).
For example, someone interested in the fashion industry volunteered at events hosted by a designer she admired.
This relationship grew, and the designer eventually offered to mentor her as she started her fashion line.
In conclusion, leveraging your network is a powerful way to find a mentor.
Start with people you already know, attend relevant events, use LinkedIn strategically, ask for referrals, and always aim to give before you take.
You can find a mentor who will guide and support you on your journey by following these steps.
If you’re a solo founder or entrepreneur, we have connections and mentors inside our Mentee Community.
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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