Everyone Talks About the Benefits of Mentorship,
But Few Explain How to Get a Mentor.
Here’s My Proven Framework to Find Your Perfect Mentor Today.
1/ Identify your goals
Before embarking on the search for a mentor, take time to reflect on your aspirations and areas where you seek guidance. For instance, are you looking for general career guidance or to improve on a specific skillset such as communicating for influence? Knowing your goals will help you pinpoint the experiences you need in a mentor and make your search more focused and effective.
2/ Be observant
Be observant of your coworkers during everyday interactions. Spot those who inspire you, showcase the skills you want to develop, or possess experiences you aim to achieve. Make these inspiring individuals your mentorship targets!
3/ Seek help from your manager
Your manager is a valuable resource in identifying potential mentors. Share your goals and interests with them, and ask for recommendations. They generally have insights on colleagues who possess the skills and experience you seek.
4/ Ask peers for recommendations
Tap into your colleagues' networks and experiences, particularly those that have been in the organization for some time and/or have moved around, to discover potential mentors. Share your goals and aspirations, and ask them to recommend who comes to mind.
5/ Search for internal programs
Check if your company has a formal mentorship program in place (or tooling that facilitates mentorship pairings). These programs help match you with experienced professionals within the organization who are committed to helping others grow and succeed.
6/ Network, network, network
Attend internal and external events to widen your professional circle. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Seek out potential mentors who possess the experience, skills, and qualities that align with your objectives from that pool.
7/ Leverage external platforms
Expand your search for a mentor beyond your workplace by leveraging online platforms specifically designed for mentorship. These platforms make it easier to find a mentor whose expertise aligns with your goals and needs.
PS: If you reach out to someone and they can't help, ask them for a recommendation. They might know someone who can be the perfect mentor for you!
