How to find a mentor: 3 Steps
By Anjuli Sastry Krbechek and Andee Tagle for NPR
The right mentor can change your career. Here's how to find one
Imagine this: Someone you admire sets aside time to meet with you. They share how they accomplished their goals. And over time, they cheer you on and give you feedback and advice. Sounds pretty great, right? That is what we call a mentor.
The right mentoring relationship can be a powerful tool for professional growth — it can lead to new career opportunities, a promotion, even a better work-life balance.
One of the trickiest things about mentoring, though, is that it often happens informally. And that can make it difficult to find an entry point.
Here's how to find a good mentor, officially make the ask and make it work.
1. Finding the Right Mentor
Know your goals (both short and long-term).
Ask yourself who you look up to.
Do the research.
Be cognizant of your existing network.
Recognize the difference between a mentor and a sponsor.
2. Making the Ask to a potential mentor
Have an elevator pitch ready.
Make sure it's the right fit before asking.
Mention what you like about the person's work, especially if you've never met.
If it's a cold email, it's OK to start with the informational interview ask.
3. Tips on Being a Good Mentee
Remember your goals.
Meet consistently.
Set an agenda.
Be open to feedback: positive or constructive.
Take notes as you're meeting so that you can follow up via email.
Decide on an end date.
Remember that this relationship is not a therapy session.
Finally, consider establishing a board of mentors.
Read the full article here for details on each tip.