This is the Fastest Way to Grow Your Career
If you're serious, find a mentor
Are you looking to get better at what you do? Perhaps you’re hoping for a promotion this year, or for something bigger down a longer-term career path. There are a few different ways to approach it. You could, as most people do, just wing it–learn by trial and error and hope that your patience is greater than your learning curve.
You could, as most successful people do, set yourself on a continuous learning path through reading, attending workshops, conferences etc.
Or, you could follow the path of those who are truly serious about their success, and find a mentor.
What is a mentor?
A mentor is an individual you respect, and who excels in the skills and disciplines you’re seeking to develop. They are guides, voices of reason, motivators, and a friendly ear. Mentors are invaluable assets in virtually every aspect of your career.
How do you find a mentor?
How do find a mentor? There are a lot of factors – but here are the basics:
1. Decide what you need
What are your goals? What don’t you know? Why are they important? What skills do you need to develop?
2. Look for the best
Don’t just look for someone you can easily contact. You want to learn from the best. As a rule, don’t choose someone from your own company, because your motivations could be misinterpreted.
3. Contact them
The best way to contact a prospective mentor is by telephone. They, like everyone else, are inundated with emails, LinkedIn messages, etc., so those media aren’t likely to work.
If the person is at a senior level – CEO, President, Vice President – it may take a while to make contact. But don’t give up! One of the most common characteristic of truly successful people is the interest in helping others succeed.
4. Be concise and precise
Plan what you’re going to say before you call – write it down. Let them know why you selected them specifically (a little flattery can go a long way – but don’t overdo it). Make sure that you accurately quantify the commitment you are asking for. Fifteen minutes a month at the mentor’s convenience is a good start.
5. Prepare for every meeting
Thoroughly prepare before every meeting. Your mentor is there to be a guide and a source of wisdom – not a babysitter. You need to know what you want to talk about, and mentors won’t appreciate their time being wasted.
6. Listen
There’s no point in getting guidance from an expert, then avoiding it! Pay attention and heed the advice. If you think you’re smarter than your mentor, you’ve chosen the wrong person.
7. Give progress reports
Whenever you have progress, let your mentors know. They don’t want to hear great detail or minutia, but they will greatly appreciate knowing they’re making a difference.
8. Thank them
Never forget to express your thanks for their time and efforts. Mentors, like the rest of us, like to be acknowledged for their efforts.
