A mentor is an important influence and indicator of business success. How you define and shape your career is largely based on who you emulate and partner with. But how can you find a mentor or partner to help you create a purposeful career and a meaningful life? By following these steps, you can cultivate a relationship that lasts and enables you to succeed in the business world.
- Determine what you’re looking for. The first step of the process is to determine exactly what you are looking for. For example, are you seeking a mentor who can help you get a promotion, guide you in a new position, or introduce you to top executives in your field? Asking yourself these questions will aid you with determining what a mentor means to you.
- Try a mentoring program. If you’re having trouble locating a potential mentor, the human resources department at your job is an excellent place to start. Many large corporations offer mentoring programs that allow you to easily locate someone with the potential to become your trusted partner. You can also try mentorship programs through major associations in your industry.
- Use all your resources. When you are searching for your mentor, ensure that you use all your resources. You should not only look within your office, but also outside it as well. Your mentor doesn’t necessarily have to be a business partner; he or she could also be a neighbor, relative, or acquaintance from another organization. Another way to find a mentor is to search on LinkedIn.
- Find out if you click. Once you have located a potential mentor, your job is not complete. You still need to determine whether or not you are compatible. To find out if you and your mentor have chemistry, have some one-on-one conversations. These interactions will help you figure out if this is a relationship that can last.
- Show them your strengths. Next, convince this person that he or she should invest his or her time and resources in you. Show your strengths, as well as how he or she can help you achieve your goals. Provide evidence to support the idea that this will be a mutually beneficial relationship.
- Make the most out of your relationship. After you have found your mentor, it is important to maximize your relationship by nurturing and building it over time. A great way to do this is to check in with your mentor on a regular basis through email or by phone. Tell your mentor how the relationship is benefiting you and allowing you to succeed in your business endeavors.
