How can you benefit from having mentors from different backgrounds?

1 Diversity of insights

Having mentors from different backgrounds means having access to a diversity of insights that can help you solve problems, generate ideas, and improve your performance. Mentors from different backgrounds can offer you different perspectives, opinions, feedback, and advice based on their own experiences, values, and cultures. They can also expose you to new opportunities, resources, and networks that you may not have otherwise. By learning from mentors from different backgrounds, you can develop a more holistic and inclusive view of your field, industry, or sector.

2 Cultural competence

Having mentors from different backgrounds can also help you develop your cultural competence, which is the ability to interact effectively and respectfully with people from different cultures. Cultural competence is a valuable skill in today's globalized and diverse world, where you may encounter people from different backgrounds in your work, education, or personal life. Having mentors from different backgrounds can help you learn about their cultures, norms, values, and expectations. They can also help you avoid cultural misunderstandings, biases, or stereotypes that may hinder your communication, collaboration, or relationships. By having mentors from different backgrounds, you can enhance your cultural awareness, sensitivity, and appreciation.

3 Personal growth

Having mentors from different backgrounds can also contribute to your personal growth, which is the process of improving yourself in various aspects of your life. Mentors from different backgrounds can challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and explore new possibilities. They can also inspire you to pursue your passions, goals, and dreams. They can also support you emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, and help you cope with stress, setbacks, or failures. By having mentors from different backgrounds, you can foster your self-confidence, resilience, and happiness.

4 How to find mentors from different backgrounds

Finding mentors from different backgrounds may not be easy, but it is possible. To do so, you should first identify your mentoring needs and goals. Ask yourself what do you want to learn from your mentors, what kind of support do you need, and what are your expectations and preferences? After that, you should expand your network and reach out to potential mentors who have different backgrounds than yours. This can be done through existing contacts, online platforms, professional associations, events, or programs. When contacting them, be proactive and respectful. Establish a good relationship with the mentors by communicating clearly and regularly, respecting their time and boundaries, appreciating their feedback and advice, and showing your gratitude and recognition. Additionally, be open-minded to their backgrounds and cultures and ask questions to learn more about them. Periodically review your mentoring relationship to see if it is meeting your needs and goals. Ask for feedback from your mentors and give them feedback as well. Celebrate achievements and milestones, address any challenges or issues that arise, be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances, seek new mentors or end the relationship if necessary. Having mentors from different backgrounds can be a rewarding experience that can help you grow personally and professionally by giving you access to a diversity of insights, developing your cultural competence, and fostering your personal growth.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?