What do you do if you want to boost your career in operational planning through mentorship programs?

2 How to find a mentor?

Finding a suitable mentor for operational planning can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. To be successful, you must be proactive, strategic, and flexible in your search. Start by identifying your learning objectives and expectations - what do you want to learn? What kind of support do you need? How often do you want to communicate? How do you prefer to receive feedback? Then, look for potential mentors within and outside your organization. Ask your manager, colleagues, or HR department for recommendations; or use online platforms such as LinkedIn to search for operational planners who have the skills and experience you are looking for. Before you contact a potential mentor, do some background research on their profile, achievements, and interests. Then send them a polite and personalized message introducing yourself, explaining why you are interested in learning from them, and requesting a meeting or a call.

3 How to approach a mentor?

Approaching a mentor can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. To ensure a successful connection, you need to be respectful, professional, and genuine in your communication. Before you meet or talk to a potential mentor, prepare a brief and clear pitch that summarizes who you are, what you do, what you want to learn, and why you think they can help you. Additionally, be mindful of their time and availability. Ask if they are interested and willing to mentor you, and how much time they can commit. Respect their schedule and preferences, and show your enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to learn from them. Demonstrate that you are eager and motivated to improve your operational planning skills and that you value their input and feedback.

4 How to benefit from a mentor?

Benefiting from a mentor requires commitment, effort, and openness from both parties. To make the most of your mentorship, you need to establish a trusting and productive relationship with your mentor and set clear and realistic goals and expectations. Be sure to communicate these expectations regularly and seek honest and constructive feedback from your mentor. Additionally, take the initiative and responsibility for your learning and development. Prepare an agenda before each session and follow up on agreed actions. This way, you can ensure that you are making the most out of your mentorship experience.

5 How to maintain a mentorship?

Maintaining a mentorship can be challenging, but rewarding. To nurture and sustain the relationship, you must be willing to adapt to changing circumstances and needs. To help you do this, here are some tips: Keep in touch and communicate regularly; schedule sessions with your mentor and use various channels, such as email, phone, or video. Don't forget to give your mentor feedback and recognition for their support and guidance, while also being open to receiving feedback and recognition from them. Additionally, review and revise your goals and expectations periodically, adjusting them according to your changing needs and situations.

6 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?