When I was a young , I recall a conversation I had with my dad, about that benefit of mentors. It was a lesson that I took to heart, and as a result I am privileged to have a number of these individuals in my life. This group of trusted advisers has helped me gain access to business networks, get interviews, start a business, get involved in charities, invest well and buy properties. Above all else, they have provided me with a wealth of knowledge and resources that I would not otherwise have. My mentors have had great influence on my life, and most certainly made it better. Now I am now honored to be in a position where I can act as a mentor to others.

I decided to write this Hub because I have encouraged many friends and colleagues to consider finding a mentor, and the results they share with me are meaningful. I am not here to write about an online program or promotional opportunity. This is basic, straightforward, and useful information that has made a difference in my life.

Now that you have a solid understanding of what a mentor is, you need to go about finding one. There are both formal and informal ways to do so. Formal mentor programs are frequently offered through large employers, university alumni associations, professional associations and networks. These can be quite useful, but it is very important to look into programs with organizations with whom you are affiliated. I do not believe in, nor suggest, seeking a mentor through any type of advertiser. Some may differ with me here, or be able to provide useful examples of how this works. However this is an opinion piece, and I stand by my advice...there are plenty of other ways to find a good mentor who is already part of your professional or social circle.

Finding mentors informally is easier than it seems, if you know how to go about it. Sometimes the person you are looking for, is right in front of you, and you just need to be intuitive enough to realize it. For example, my first mentor was a family friend who was an alumni of the university I was attending, and an executive for a company that was in my field of interest. I admired this person and was blessed by his guidance in my early career. Friends, neighbors, business associates, or people you have come to know through professional networking groups, all have the potential to be a mentor. Be creative when you put your list together, and you will discover that you have more options than you imagined.

In a relationship with a mentor, you have the opportunity to make an incredible life-long connection. However, you also can run the risk of quickly ending the association. The things that you do, and the way you do them, will determine which way it will go. Here are some tips that will ensure a positive experience:

• First and foremost, be mindful of your mentor's time.
• Do your best to save all questions and issues to discuss at your scheduled meetings.
• Meetings should not be rescheduled by you, unless there is an emergency.
• Be gracious and flexible when your mentor needs to reschedule a meeting.
• Always update your mentor with any changes in your contact information.
• Periodically make sure that the frequency of your meetings is acceptable to your mentor.
• Make sure that the subject matter of your meetings is consistent to your objectives.
• Always express gratitude for advice and guidance.
• On occasion, offer to pick up the tab for a lunch or dinner meeting.
• Follow the rules of basic etiquette and respect when interacting with your mentor.

A mentor can truly change your life. They can expose you to people and opportunities that you would not otherwise have had. Mentors instill confidence in your decision making processes and provide a level of support that is unparalleled. Specifically, your mentor will help you to determine your personal and professional strengths and weaknesses, and see you through the development of your career objectives. They will provide you with decision making tools and guidance which will enable you to make the most informed decisions. One part coach, one part advisor, a mentor will not tell you what to do, but rather will assist you in honing your skills. As such, you will be better equipped to choose wisely as opportunities present themselves. Mentors have experience and success on their side. Learn from their challenges as well as their achievements. An additional bonus of a strong mentor relationship, is that they may provide advice on other issues that you face, such as making a major purchases, investing, and other personal affairs.

In summary, finding a mentor and developing the relationship will prove invaluable from both a professional and personal perspective. As mentors serve different purposes, you may find yourself with more than one trusted mentor. Also, keep in mind that as your career evolves, your mentors may change. At some point, you may be asked to fulfill the role of a mentor. This will provide you with an opportunity to give others the benefits of what you have received.

Now that you know how to find a mentor it's time to take action. Before you get started enjoy the video and the music. The two main characters are a good representation of the mentor relationship. Enjoy!