How to Find a Mentor

Working in the corporate world, we're often surrounded by older and wiser people. Those who've served the business for years have gained a vast range of knowledge in many different areas. Sometimes these people are our bosses, colleagues or friends. We often consider these people role models, but lack the courage and know-how to approach them for guidance. The power of mentorship can help you tap into that knowledge and propel you towards success. So what are you waiting for?

A mentor is defined as a trusted friend, counselor or teacher, usually a more experienced person. Mentors can help you break into a new field, share the secrets of their success, or help you in your current position; either way, they do it for free and out of the kindness of their hearts.

The Preparation

If you're interested in finding a mentor, there are some things you should know. Before approaching anyone, it's important to do your homework; not simply by researching the person you would like to mentor you, but by preparing yourself to become a mentee. First, you'll need to determine your needs:

• Are you considering changing jobs?
• Are you looking for help with your current position?
• Do you have someone in mind in your office?
• Have you already created a rapport with someone you would consider asking?

You'll have to answer each of these questions in order to point yourself in the right direction. Before you ask anyone, it's important to have more than one choice. Write down prospective mentors on a list. Begin with your family and friends, and then broaden your horizons to include co-workers, bosses, or other leaders. This is essential simply because each person will have something unique to contribute to the relationship but may not exactly match your style. Connect with those you've had little interaction with to form a foundation. If you feel that the rapport isn't there, you should probably eliminate them from your list. Likewise, do your research on each candidate so you can be up-to-date with their accomplishments and expertise. You want to be prepared when approaching that person.

Next, create a list of things you would like to learn from this person. This will help you narrow the focus of what you hope to gain from the relationship. List everything from learning to tie your shoes like they do to learning how to make a billion dollars. It doesn't matter how big or small, just list it. Once you've got a hefty list, go through and prioritize the lessons you want to learn. Please note that you should not mention all of these items to each potential mentor. Be sure to whittle down your list to appropriate material you would be comfortable discussing with each individual person, depending on the level of expertise.

The Approach

Your approach should be calculated as you don't want the person to decline simply because they don't have the time right now. It's important to pick the right moment. If you have occasion to sit with the person over lunch, coffee or just an in-office impromptu conversation, feel the person out by mentioning their accomplishments. As the person begins to elaborate, express your sincere interest in learning more. Explain that you've been thinking a lot about this type of relationship and begin by discussing what you hope to gain. Next, explain to the person why you believe the two of you are a good match.

You must prepare yourself for rejection. Of course, you shouldn't take it personally as it's usually just an issue of time or in some cases a lack of confidence on the mentor's part. If this situation occurs, politely ask the individual for a recommendation. You should never be afraid to tap into others resources as they can be a blessing. Also, you can always approach the others that you listed in the same way.

The Mentorship

When you begin this kind of relationship with someone, it's important to set ground rules. Once you've established the mentorship, begin to hash out the details. Determine how often you'll communicate, create a pact of confidentiality, time commitments, and in what capacity you will spend your time. You may even offer the idea of being able to break the relationship at anytime with no hard feelings. Some mentors are more involved than others, so you'll need to determine the way your relationship will work so that both parties agree.

In some cases, we've had mentors without even knowing or establishing a "defined" relationship. It could be the good advice we receive from a trusted friend or a boss that answers our infinite questions. The point of mentorship is to establish a continual relationship of learning with someone you consider to be of great value. Do your homework and nurture the relationship to find success in your personal and professional life.