How To Find A Mentor...Today!
The benefits of mentorship have been documented and touted about by successful people all over the world. And why wouldn’t it be, mentorship can provide even the most talented neophytes with the insight and skills needed to become masters of their trades, crafts, and areas of expertise. Mentorship can also serve up excellent reference and job opportunities for those baby ducks who are ready to swim alone.
Finding a mentor:
- Your Job or School - If you’re currently employed at an organization or enrolled in an educational institution for your chosen area it’s always a good idea to first start there with your mentorship queries. Consider this point A. Many companies and schools are always looking for bright new talents to help mold and develop, and in turn a lot will offer in-house mentorship programs.
- Social Media - The development of social media into the connectivity and marketing powerhouse that is has become as a whole has made sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn, some of the best hubs to connect with other people within your industry both professionally and personally.
- Your Own Inner Circle - It’s all about who you know, right? Yes….well, sometimes. Who better to vouch for your than a personal friend or work colleague? Ask around, see who knows who. Don’t be shy about putting your interests out there. Share your goals with your friends and co-workers. Snoop around on their social media profiles, and ask them about their relationships with people who you think may be a potential mentor.
- Networking Events And Trade Groups – “In order to win, you’ve got to sit at the table” (Ben Stein, Bunkhouse Logic). Networking both online and offline is going to be your
- Local Industry Affiliations- Most national business associations have city/state chapters and groups that usually provide resources and offer events to members on a local level. Make a list of all of the associations and groups relating to your vocation, then find out where you can connect with members locally-this can be your honey pot in terms of potential mentors and business contacts.
Through shared trades, vocations, and thought leadership groups, you can be almost certain to find a mentor who’s willing to take you under their wing and provide you with positive direction within your chose career path. Believe us, it’s worth it!
