When you’re trying to grow as a professional, it’s natural to run into roadblocks along the way. Maybe you’re trying to grow your small business faster, or are trapped in a job that you aren’t satisfied with. When this is the case, it’s important that you find a mentor who can give you sound advice on what to do next.
The Advantages of Mentorship
When you work by yourself at learning something new, there’s always going to be some trial and error. You’re going to make mistakes, and it’s going to be frustrating. To minimize the number of errors you have to make, however, it’s tremendously helpful to have a mentor.
A mentor is someone further in their career path who can give you advice on what to do next. They can point out potential pitfalls on the journey of professional development and steer you in the right direction. Additionally, with a mentor on your side, you can tap into their network and gain confidence in the fact that you’re on the right track.
Finding a Mentor: Where to Look
While it’s no secret that having a mentor can fuel success, most people don’t know where to look. The truth is, there are plenty of mentors in the world to choose from, you just have to put yourself out there.
To give you a start, here are some suggestions on how to begin your search.
Tap Into Your Network
Chances are that you already have an expansive network, you just aren’t taking advantage of it. Whether it be your relatives, friends, or even acquaintances you meet in passing, there are always opportunities to network. Even if the person you’re talking to isn’t directly in your industry, they might know someone who is.
Join a Mentorship Program
The demand for mentorship is high. For this reason, there are numerous mentorship programs already in place. Inquire about such programs at your work, or through your school. If you don’t have access to a program in person, you may want to search online.
Use Social Media
A tried and true way to find a mentor is through social media. Make a post and DM former colleagues and connections to find leads. Depending on how many online connections you have, this method could be more or less effective than other strategies.
Ask Around Your Workplace
One of the advantages of asking around your workplace is that your leads are guaranteed to be in your industry. In some cases, your employer may even have a mentorship program already in place that you can sign up for.
Regardless of where you are in your professional career, it’s always beneficial to have a mentor by your side. They can help guide you through tough times and hasten your growth dramatically. That being said, sometimes it takes time to find the right fit. Be patient. With deliberate effort and consistent habits, you’re sure to find the right mentor for you.
