What do you do if you're searching for a mentor in the field of 3D Printing with the right qualities?

3 Reach out respectfully

When you find someone who you think could be a good mentor for you, you need to reach out to them respectfully and politely. You can send them an email, a message, or a comment, introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in learning from them. You should also mention your goals, your background, and your current level of 3D printing skills. You should not expect them to agree to be your mentor right away, or to give you free advice or feedback. You should also respect their time and availability, and avoid being too pushy or demanding.

4 Build a relationship

If the person you contacted agrees to be your mentor, or to have a conversation with you, you should try to build a rapport and a relationship with them. You can do this by showing genuine interest in their work, asking relevant and thoughtful questions, following their suggestions, and sharing your progress and challenges. You should also be respectful, grateful, and responsive, and avoid asking for too much or too often. You should also try to offer something in return, such as feedback, support, or appreciation.

5 Evaluate the fit

As you interact with your mentor, you should also evaluate how well they fit your needs and expectations. You should ask yourself if they are knowledgeable, supportive, honest, and reliable. You should also consider if they are compatible with your personality, learning style, and communication preferences. If you feel that the mentorship is not working for you, or that you have outgrown it, you should be honest and respectful, and end it gracefully. You should also thank them for their time and guidance, and keep in touch if possible.

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?