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At The Talently, we know that a mentor is a valuable asset when it comes to growing your career. Working with a mentor is a great way to access insights into your industry, build your professional network, and create an actionable roadmap toward your career goals. Whether you want to launch a business of your own or climb through the ranks at your company and land a leadership position one day, a mentor will help you get there. Here are some tips to help you connect with the perfect mentor for you!
Go Back to School
Not sure where to find a mentor? Consider going back to school. Enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program is an excellent opportunity to network. You might even find a professor who is willing to mentor you in your field! This works particularly well for those breaking into the education industry. By pursuing a degree in education, you’ll meet several professors and teacher’s assistants who could make excellent mentors. If you’re looking for online learning opportunities that won’t get in the way of work, this may be a good option!
Find a Mentor with Similar Values
While your mentor should have some experience working in your industry, it’s also important that their values align with yours. For example, if you value work-life balance over the daily grind, ensure your mentor similarly understands the importance of self-care and rest. Make sure your mentor shares your definition of success. Whether you’re after wealth, respect, fame, fulfillment, or simple stability, try to find a mentor who has already achieved your ideal version of success.
Establish Your Main Goals
What do you want to get out of a mentor? Setting clear goals is important for getting the most out of your mentorship. These goals will depend on your professional objectives and personal values. Perhaps you want to build confidence, learn new skills, prepare yourself for new opportunities, or build stronger relationships with the people you look up to. Talk to your mentor about your goals so you can work on them together.
Be Prepared to Take Constructive Criticism
Constructive criticism is one of the most valuable gifts your mentor will offer to you. Learn how to take constructive feedback and use it in your favor. Many people naturally recoil in the face of criticism, but honest critical feedback is far more powerful than praise. Welcome it! Instead of reacting defensively, BetterUp.com stresses the importance of staying calm, focusing on the benefits of receiving criticism, expressing gratitude for the feedback, and asking questions to learn more about how you can improve. Most importantly, don’t take it personally!
Offer Your Mentor Something in Return
The key to creating a great relationship with your mentor is providing value in return. Remember, your mentor is volunteering their time to help you. Show them you appreciate their guidance by respecting their time and finding ways to support their own professional goals. For example, you can offer fresh insights or perspectives on their career and help them make new connections by introducing them to others in your professional circle. KevinMD.com suggests nominating your mentor for an award or recommending them for speaker engagements to help advance their career. Mentoring is also a great opportunity for people to develop communication and leadership skills, so don’t be afraid to offer your mentor some constructive feedback of your own!
A mentor can bring incredible value to your professional life. Look for a mentor who is excited about your professional goals and eager to help you thrive in your chosen field. Remember, you can find great mentors by going back to school and earning an online degree. Once you’ve landed a mentor, work together to set goals, share constructive criticism, and help each other succeed.
Could you use some support at your coaching business? The Talently offers social media management, content creation, email marketing, and virtual assistance! Get in touch today so we can discuss your needs.
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